Arte TV Explores Ancient Treasures of Turkmenistan in New Film
Arte, the German-French TV channel dedicated to art and culture, aired the film “Treasures in the Desert Sands – the Ancient Heritage of Turkmenistan” on Saturday evening, October 14. The film explores the unique monuments of Turkmenistan, specifically focusing on Margiana, an ancient kingdom that was once a significant power center.
Despite flourishing during the same time as the advanced civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt, Margiana was forgotten for centuries. It was only in recent years that archaeologists unearthed palace buildings and exquisite funereal treasures in the middle of the Karakum desert, in the former capital of Gonur Depe.
The film showcases awe-inspiring aerial photographs that reveal the vastness of these hidden metropolises within the harsh desert landscape. In the nearby area of Ulug-Depe, an international team of researchers also excavated monumental fortifications. UNESCO has recognized Merv, Kunyaurgench, and Nisa as World Cultural Heritage Sites.
The film delves into the origins of powerful empires in Turkmenistan from the Bronze Age onwards. Scientific research has demonstrated that the population was highly mobile, engaging in long-distance trade connections with India, the Urals, and the Mediterranean. Turkmen cities played a crucial role as key points along the Silk Road, the most important trade route between China and Europe for thousands of years.
The German documentary filmmakers behind “Treasures in the Desert Sands – the Ancient Heritage of Turkmenistan” initially premiered the film in October 2020. Since then, it has continued to captivate European audiences with its exploration of Turkmenistan’s rich ancient history.
Overall, as Central Asia takes center stage in contemporary history, the attention from both the scientific and media communities has intensified. The film serves as a testament to the enduring allure and significance of Turkmenistan’s ancient heritage.
[ORIENT news]
