Ethnographic Delegation in Kyrgyzstan

A two-member delegation from the Museum of Ethnography visited Kyrgyzstan between 30 June and 5 July 2025 to strengthen cultural and scientific ties and to commemorate György Almásy’s 1906 journey to Kyrgyzstan. The Embassy of Hungary in Bishkek played a key role in organising the visit, with His Excellency Ambassador Sándor Dorogi personally supporting the delegation by attending every meeting and event.

On 1 July, Dr Gábor Veres, Deputy Director General, opened the exhibition György Almásy’s Journey in Kyrgyzstan, 1906 at the Historical Museum in Karakol, as part of the OIMO Craft Festival. The OIMO Festival has been held for several years with the aim of supporting the region’s craft traditions. During the festival, members of the delegation took part in a conference that addressed topics such as the preservation of intangible and material cultural heritage and traditional crafts. Dr Veres also gave an overview of the Hungarian situation. Several promising professional connections were established during the festival and conference.

In the second half of the week, the delegation was based in Bishkek, the capital, where they held discussions with the Kyrgyz Academy of Sciences, the Kyrgyz State Historical Museum, and the Gapar Aitiev Fine Arts Museum. During this visit, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Museum of Ethnography and the Scientific Research Centre for Traditional Culture and Art of the Kyrgyz Academy of Sciences. The agreement outlines opportunities for joint research, exhibitions, and researcher exchange programmes, with a particular focus on the study of heritage related to Almásy.

The professional connections established during the visit provide a promising foundation for future collaborations, especially with regard to involving young professionals and exploring shared cultural heritage.