In this episode of Modern Nomads, we travel to Kazakhstan's Almaty region to discover the rich history and innovative transformations of the yurt, a symbol of nomadic resilience and adaptability.
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00:00The Kazakhs, whose name means free, forged a unique identity in the vast open steppe
00:08during the 15th and 16th centuries, a legacy deeply rooted in nomadic traditions.
00:14The yurt, a symbol of this heritage, has evolved alongside them, still cherished today, though
00:20often adapted to be used in a modern setting.
00:29In the Almaty region, located about 1,000 km south of the capital Astana, the distinctive
00:34shapes of yurts often appear on the landscape.
00:38Yurts – portable and eco-friendly circular dwellings used for centuries by nomads on
00:42the steppes – have been adapted for modern uses, such as accommodations or restaurants.
00:48Over time, the yurt, recognized on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, has evolved
00:53into a sophisticated and versatile shelter.
00:56At this ethno-village, we spoke to architect Ravil Nurgisa, who won a prestigious architecture
01:01award for his ultra-modern version of a yurt, recognized for its innovative approach and
01:06cultural significance.
01:07To attract younger generations, here I imagined the yurt with a 25-square-meter layout, featuring
01:13transformable furniture, centralized facilities and sliding walls.
01:18One of the main features is its sustainability, following principles that honor both traditional
01:23and environmental responsibility.
01:26We put a photoelectric panel on the top of the yurt, where we take the energy from the
01:34solar panel and use it for washing and washing machines.
01:38Even if there is a small fire in the house, it can be used.
01:43The energy taken from the yurt is used in the kitchen, and the energy is stored in the
01:49reservoir at the bottom of the yurt.
01:52Interest in modern yurts has grown worldwide, with Ravil receiving inquiries from across
01:58the globe.
02:01To understand the yurt's significance to Kazakhs, we must explore its traditional role in supporting
02:07their nomadic lifestyle for centuries.
02:09Yurts dating back 3,000 years in Central Asia feature a wooden frame covered with felt or
02:16canvas, making them easy to assemble, disassemble and transport.
02:20Herders and shepherds still use them in mountain pastures.
02:25We are on Almaty's mountains.
02:27Here it's common to see traditional yurts, often used for glamping but still keeping
02:32their original form.
02:33The yurt's circular design is supposed to prevent negative energy buildup, ensuring
02:39continuous energy flow and promoting harmony.
02:42Its decoration is equally important.
02:44Kazakh yurts, more ornate than Mongolian and Kyrgyz ones, feature vibrant patterns, felt
02:49carpets, colored rugs and wooden furniture, embodying their rich heritage and artistry.
02:55Just like the shapan, the traditional garment Tlek offered me to make me feel like a true Kazakh.
03:02It's a unique experience to be able to experience the unique sense of rest and relaxation,
03:07helping relieve stress and inner tension.
03:09When you stay in a yurt, you may experience a unique sense of rest and relaxation, helping
03:14relieve stress and inner tension.
03:16Is this a couch?
03:18This is a bed.
03:20Oh yeah, bed?
03:22Okay.
03:25Oh, this is really comfortable.
03:33It's true that within this cocoon we can feel the culture and spirit of the Kazakh people.
03:38I've traveled across the country to the capital Astana to learn more about an essential aspect
03:44of this Kazakh symbol's interior decoration, the rugs.
03:49At the SheRug exhibition, which explores the untold stories of the steps through carpets
03:54and contemporary tapestries, I learned more about the significance of this art form.
03:59These hand-woven masterpieces, passed down through generations, adorn the yurts as decoration,
04:05insulation and a reflection of the owner's identity through specific patterns.
04:10Most importantly, identity card.
04:13Therefore, Kazakh rugs include the ornaments, which would portray the family and its heritage,
04:20its history.
04:21It's like a non-verbal communication.
04:23Indeed, a nomad entering a yurt could immediately identify its owner.
04:27The rugs often depict livestock, highlighting its significance as the primary source of
04:32wealth for nomads.
04:34Our journey through time wraps up here.
04:37We have uncovered the history of Kazakh rugs,
04:40Our journey through time wraps up here.
04:42We have uncovered the story of yurts and seen how these structures, once essential for nomadic
04:47life, still embody the Kazakh spirit of versatility and serve as a lasting link between the past
04:54and the present.