International Scientific Seminar–Teambuilding “Botai and Turan – Foundations of the Turkic World”
On August 13, 2025, a unique international scientific seminar–teambuilding event titled “Botai and Turan – Foundations of the Turkic World” was held at the unique archaeological settlement of Botai, bringing together representatives of science, culture, and government representatives.
The seminar was attended by scholars from Türkiye, Azerbaijan, the Republic of Tatarstan, Yakutia, and the Republic of Bashkortostan within the Russian Federation, as well as residents of the district and region.
Honorary guests included Deputy Vice Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan E.B. Kosherbayev and Akim of North Kazakhstan Region G.T. Nurmukhambetov.
The event presented a vivid combination of scientific exchange and live historical reconstruction.
For guests, a theatrical reenactment of the life of the ancient Botai people was organized, including demonstrations of ceramic production, stone disc manufacturing, and leather processing. The everyday life of the Botai people was shown through traditional fishing dwellings and household artifacts (tools). As a visual expression of ancient worldview, a shamanic ritual of spirit invocation was staged, presenting the cultural and spiritual heritage of that period, along with archaeological excavations recreating the atmosphere of life at this site 6,000 years ago.
On this day, Botai became a center of cultural attraction not only for archaeologists and historians. Participants of an international symposium of artists also visited the site, finding inspiration in the ancient steppe and combining past and present in their works.
The event highlighted the uniqueness of the Botai culture as a key element of Kazakhstan’s historical and cultural heritage and its importance in international scientific and creative dialogue.
Such events contribute not only to the promotion of North Kazakhstan’s rich heritage but also to strengthening the international image of the region, opening new prospects for cultural tourism, scientific cooperation, and creative initiatives.
