LANDS AND PEOPLES /A Visit to Kazakhstan

Kazakhs traditionally lived as nomads.  To this day, some Kazakh herders move their animals to different pastures according to the season.  They spend the summer in cooler highland grazing lands. Then, as the snowy winter approaches, they bring their flocks down to the warmer lowlands.

Some Kazakhs live in modern developed cities. Yet, many traditions, foods, and handicrafts reflect their ancestor's nomadic way of life.  Kazakhs enjoy a rich heritage of poetry, songs, and music played on local musical instruments. 

The yurt-the traditional portable house of nomads-has become a symbol of man living in harmony with nature.  Shepherds still favor the yurt, and urban Kazakhs often use them for special events.  Yurts also serve and  comfortable tourist accommodations. The interior of a yurt can be a showplace for Kazakhs  women's diverse embroidering, weaving, and carpet-making skills.

Next time: LANDS AND PEOPLES/ Conclusion of  A Visit to Kazakhstan

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