International Archaeological Conference “Archaeology and Tourism: Evaluation of Potential and Heritage Management”
under the auspices of UNESCO has been held at Karakalpak State University.

Rector of KSU Professor Akhmed Reymov solemnly greeted the participants.

Participants were divided into groups to participate in discussions on conference topics.

 On September 17, 2021, in Nukus the international archaeological conference “Archaeology and Tourism: Evaluation of Potential and Heritage Management,” which is part of the International Cultural Forum “Central Asia at the Crossroads of World Civilizations” has been heldunder the auspices of UNESCO. The conference was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the National Commission of the Republic of Uzbekistan for UNESCO and the International Institute for Central Asian Studies (IICAS), with the support of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

The important background for this conference lies in the aspiration of the government of the Republic of Uzbekistan to find solutions for the study, preservation, use, popularization and sustainable management of historical and cultural heritage and, in particular, archaeological monuments. Among the most important steps, reflecting the integrated approach in the work carried out in the republic, was also the preparation of several nominations of the unique monuments of history and culture for the inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List,  including the transnational serial nominations “The Great Silk Road: Zaravshan-Karakum Corridor” and “Heritage of Ancient Khorezm,”which brought together scientists and researchers from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan; as well as an individual nomination from the Republic of Uzbekistan – “Three hills of Mizdakhan.”

Within the scope of the ongoing research work across the country, the conference is expected to become a unique Central Asian platform for a comprehensive and detailed discussion of the problems and tasks concerning studying and preserving the archaeological heritage. Possessing great potential, the archaeological sites can become a catalyst for the development of cultural tourism at the national, regional and international levels.

More than fifty heavyweights, famous scientists and practitioners in the field of archaeology and historical and cultural heritage were invited to participate in the events. The subject-matters of the reports will cover such areas as scientific and cultural exchanges, the establishment of interethnic dialogue and cooperation, as well as the contribution of historical and cultural heritage to the development of social and humanstudies.