tarqiylmasi

Tarqiylmasi is a traditional nomadic dwelling used by the Turkic peoples of Central Asia, particularly prevalent among Kazakh and Kyrgyz communities. It is a portable, circular structure characterized by a latticework wooden frame covered with felt or animal hides. The design of the tarqiylmasi is well-suited to the nomadic lifestyle, allowing for relatively easy assembly and disassembly.

The fundamental structure consists of a collapsible wooden lattice called a kerege, which forms the walls. This is often topped by a wooden dome or roof frame, known as a shanyrak in Kazakh or tunduk in Kyrgyz. The shanyrak, a distinctive feature, represents the sky or the heavens in traditional symbolism. Wooden poles, calledуык (uyk) or багана (bagana), support the shanyrak and connect it to the kerege.

The exterior covering typically consists of multiple layers of felt, providing excellent insulation against the harsh climates of Central Asia, keeping the interior warm in winter and cool in summer. In some cases, animal hides might be used as an additional protective layer. The interior space is often divided into sections for living, sleeping, and cooking. The entrance is usually a simple flap or a wooden door. The tarqiylmasi served as a vital shelter, reflecting the ingenuity and adaptability of nomadic cultures in their historical environments.