The Ashgabat Carpet Museum stands as a testament to Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage, housing over 2,000 ancient rugs that weave together tales of tradition and craftsmanship. Among its treasures, a magnificent wine-colored carpet commands attention, stretching across an impressive 300 square meters and securing its place in the Guinness World Records.

Beyond its record-breaking centerpiece, the museum offers a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of Turkmen nomadic life. Here, visitors can explore rugs once used to adorn horses and camels, alongside carpet bags that served as functional pieces of furniture for the wandering tribes of Turkmenistan's past.

Guides like Gulshirin Amanmuhammedova provide insight into the practical and symbolic significance of these artifacts. She explains how nomadic tribes utilized carpet bags, known as 'chuval,' not only to store essentials like dishes and salt but also to safeguard their clothing in large decorative pouches.

Yet, the museum's role extends beyond preservation; it serves as a hub of restoration and renewal for these ancient treasures. Skilled artisans, armed with microscopic precision, threads, and needles, breathe new life into worn and weathered carpets. Restorer Ogulsapar Charybaeva reveals the painstaking process, highlighting the stark contrast between weaving anew and reviving the past. While weaving a new carpet may take mere days, restoring one demands meticulous care and upwards of ten days per 10 centimeters.

The museum's dedication to restoration is evident, with over 300 ancient rugs already revitalized and proudly displayed for visitors to admire. Each meticulously restored piece not only honors Turkmenistan's cultural legacy but also serves as a bridge between past and present, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless artistry of Turkmen carpet weaving. As visitors wander through the halls of the Ashgabat Carpet Museum, they are transported through centuries of craftsmanship, where every thread tells a story of resilience, tradition, and beauty.