Kyrgyzstan: The Land of 21st-Century Nomads with Dr. Nina Wieda

Known for its natural beauty, Kyrgyzstan is a Central Asian country whose vibrant nomadic culture attracts visitors from all over the world. Kyrgyz nomads are famous for their hospitality and they welcome visitors to their yurts and daily activities. Kyrgyzstan is the birth place of a millennium-old Epic of Manas, recognized as the longest epic in the world. It takes 5 days to recite the epic in full; Kyrgyzstan still has a living tradition where storytellers who know the epic by heart recite it at celebrations and gatherings. A millennium ago, Kyrgyzstan was also home to some of the centers of world civilization and cosmopolitan cities of the Silk Road, whose merchants brought cultural and culinary influences from far and wide. Today, the monuments of the bygone era stand next to Soviet-era cities and nomad camps. 

Led by an expert on the post-Soviet space, Nina Wieda, this course illuminates Kyrgyzstan's rich history and culture. Designed to inspire curiosity and future travels, participants will come away with an increased fascination for Kyrgyzstan and an understanding of its unique cultural and political landscape.