This electronic resource contains an array of data which is collected and processed by the joint efforts of all interested participants with the general leadership of Nazarbayev University. Objects plotted on the map had and have value and special significance for various ethno-religious within the broader Kazakhstani nation. Most of the sites are in one way or another connected with various religious traditions that were and still are widespread on the territory of Kazakhstan: Islam, various branches of Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism and local religious cults. This category of sites includes sanctuaries, mosques, churches, cathedrals, monasteries, hermitages, temples and houses for praying. The mausoleums of khans, biys, Muslim saints, batyrs and akyns, as well as necropolises are allocated within a special category.
Natural objects with unusual properties, such as mountains, ridges, springs, tracts, valleys, rivers, streams, sources, lakes, caves, individual groves and trees, stones, etc., were also subject to sacralization. They played an important role in the life of local communities or were associated with some significant historical events or personalities. The map also shows ancient settlements, mounds, steles, petroglyphs, even if there are no systematic religious ceremonies and rituals associated with them nowadays.
The map also includes those objects that do not always correspond to the concept of "sacred", but are of great importance for commemorative practices, such as historical sites, buildings and objects, as well as monuments and steles. A broad interpretation of "sacred object" concept is not our choice, but is dictated by the decision of the "Sacred Kazakhstan" research center experts who defined such objects as "sacred". In the filters, users can select objects which have a status assigned by the experts of the "Sacred Kazakhstan" research center and UNESCO. Another option is the ability of selecting objects according to their historical era, century or year of foundation. The map can be used for research purposes, development of tourist routes, preservation of cultural heritage and purposes of pilgrimage and tourism.
Note: Please keep in mind that the coordinates that are available on the map and in the database are not always accurate and are not recommended for navigation purposes!
When using the map in a public space, it is required to make reference to the project and site.
If you find any errors or inaccuracies while working with the map, please inform us about them using the Contact Us form.
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