In what has been seen as a major success for Kazakhstan’s growing tourism industry, UNESCO has added the Mangystau Rock Mosques to its World Heritage List.
The main sites recognised by the international organisation include Beket-Ata, Shopan-Ata, Karaman-Ata, Shakpak-Ata, and Sultan-Epe, all dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries.
These structures are carved into local rocks or dug into the ground and have their origins in nomadic days, and according to UNESCO, in part represent the emergence of Islamic Sufi spirituality. They have been destination points for many on pilgrimages, not to mention serving as sacred sites in ancestor worship. They were also important centres of spiritual leadership.
The mosques are a unique example of how the natural environment can be adapted to create places of worship and learning.
The sites range in size and have a variety of functions, including not only prayer halls and mihrabs, but also rooms for quiet reflection, and while they had a strong religious purpose, they were always centres of learning as well. Each site is flanked by burial grounds, and the tombs of saints are also located there.
The decision to include these Kazakh treasures on UNESCO’s list was taken this month by a special committee involving over 3,000 delegates from more than 190 countries that are part of the World Heritage Convention. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany both attended the opening ceremony.
Yerlan Karin, Deputy Head of Kazakhstan’s Presidential Administration, welcomed the news:
“The rock mosques of Mangystau were not only places of prayer and worship but also centres of education and learning. These rocks preserve the historical memory of our people and the teachings of our ancestors.”
Because of this international recognition, tourism is expected to increase, not only to these famous mosques, but also to the wider Mangystau Region, widely considered to be one of the most breathtaking and rugged landscapes on the planet.
