On August 13, 2025, the unique archaeological site of Botai hosted the international scientific seminar and team-building event titled “Botai and Turan – Foundations of the Turkic World”, which brought together representatives of science, culture, and government authorities.

The seminar was attended by scientists from Turkey, Azerbaijan, the Republic of Tatarstan, Yakutia, and the Republic of Bashkortostan within the Russian Federation, as well as local residents of the district and region.

The event welcomed honorary guests, including the Deputy Vice-Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, E.B. Kosherbayev, and the Akim of the North Kazakhstan Region, G.T. Nurmukhambetov.

The seminar represented a vibrant combination of scientific knowledge exchange and live historical reconstruction.

For the guests, a theatrical reenactment of the life of the ancient Botai people was organized: demonstrations of ceramic production, making stone discs, processing animal hides, and everyday life were presented. Traditional dwellings of fishermen and household artifacts, such as tools, were displayed. In addition, to illustrate the spiritual worldview of the period, a shamanic spirit-calling ceremony was staged, showcasing the cultural and spiritual heritage of the time. Archaeological excavations were also demonstrated, recreating the atmosphere of life at this site 6,000 years ago.

On that day, Botai became a center of cultural attraction not only for archaeologists and historians. Participants of an international artists’ symposium also visited, finding inspiration in the ancient steppes and combining the past and present in their artworks.

The event underscored the uniqueness of Botai culture as a vital component of Kazakhstan’s historical and cultural heritage and emphasized its significance in international scientific and creative dialogue.

Holding such events contributes not only to the popularization of the rich heritage of North Kazakhstan but also to strengthening the international image of the region, opening new opportunities for the development of cultural tourism, scientific collaboration, and creative initiatives.