One of the most famous open-air museums in the Republic of Khakassia is the museum "Khurtuyakh tas". It is located not far from the aal Ankhakov, in the Askizsky district. It was opened on the public initiative on July 17, 2003, and since then it has been one of the most visited museums of the republic, known far beyond its borders.
The main object of the display is the stone statue Ulug Khurtuyakh tas. “Great Stone Mother” or “Great Stone Old Woman”, this is how the name of the stele is translated from the Khakas language. It is one of the most revered stone statues of the republic. This menhir has long been a symbol of the concentration of vitality and well-being of the people of Khakassia. Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas was created during the Okunev archaeological culture, in the III-II millennium BC. For the first time, Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas was described by the scientist D.G. Messerschmidt in 1721.
Since the dawn of time, Khurtuyakh Tas has been considered the patroness of motherhood, the protector of the hearth. According to an old legend, after having lost her children, Khurtuyakh Tas received from the Gods a part of the soul of the Khakass people and care for them. To this day, women pray to the steppe goddess for family well-being, and also thank her for her help in childbirth.
The second, equally interesting part of the exposition is a genuine Khakas yurt, built in the XIXth century, with a complete collection of traditional household items. The yurt is a prime example of Khakas culture. Also, on the territory of the museum there are burial mounds of the Tagar archaeological culture (VII-IIIсс. BC).
In addition to the unique exposition, the Museum “Khurtuyah Tas” offers the opportunity to take part in traditional rituals. Museum staff can organize a solemn meeting of guests according to national rites, by prior request it is possible to order a degustation of Khakas national cuisine - talgan and ayran, as well as organize traditional wedding ceremonies - Ulug Toi.
Besides, the museum holds various national holidays, for example, "Ayran suzy" - the rays of ayran. Bright, original holidays are filled with national flavour and invariably attract a large number of participants.
Learn more on the official website of the museum хуртуяхтас.рф
