The Museum of History and Ethnography in Mary, is a fascinating institution showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Located in Mary, near the ancient UNESCO World Heritage city of Merv, this museum serves as a gateway to understanding the long and complex history of the region.
The interior is spacious, with well-organized galleries displaying a variety of artefacts from different historical periods. The collection includes items from the Bronze Age, the Persian Empire and the Islamic period. Special attention is paid to archaeological finds from Merv, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. The artefacts include ancient ceramics, tools, jewellery, coins and textiles, giving an insight into the daily life, art and trade of the inhabitants of the region for thousands of years.
Ethnographic elements are also presented here: traditional Turkmen clothing, handicrafts and musical instruments. These exhibits give visitors an insight into the customs and traditions of the local population, including the significance of Turkmen carpets, which are known throughout the world.
The museum was founded in 1968, during the Soviet era, to preserve and showcase the historical and cultural wealth of the Mary region. Its establishment coincided with a large-scale archaeological excavation in Merv, which uncovered treasures from the once prosperous Great Silk Road city. The museum played a crucial role in documenting and preserving these finds, making it one of the most important cultural institutions in Turkmenistan.
