How Digital Technology Is Saving the Dandanakan Mosque
A unique field workshop, "Dandanakan: Future Technologies for Preserving the Past," has launched at the Ancient Merv State Reserve. The project is being implemented as part of a large-scale state program for the preservation of historical and cultural heritage for 2022-2028.
The event was organized by the National Department for the Protection, Study, and Restoration of Historical and Cultural Monuments and the Ancient Merv Reserve, in collaboration with the Union of Architects of Turkmenistan and the public association "Achievements of Young People of Turkmenistan." The initiative received support from the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage (ALIPH) and the European Union.
The study focused on the ruins of a cathedral mosque dating from the 9th–12th centuries, excavated on the site of the medieval settlement of Dandanakan. It is one of the oldest surviving cathedral mosques in Central Asia. Today, the ancient monument is at risk due to climate change and desertification.
Dandanakan is located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of the center of Ancient Merv (and 33 kilometers from the modern city of Mary) in the middle of the desert. In ancient times, it was a separate fortified outpost on the caravan route from Merv to Serakhs.
A group of young specialists—employees of state nature reserves and students from the architecture department of the Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan—set out to save this heritage. Under the guidance of experts, they are mastering digital documentation methods.
In the field, the workshop participants practiced terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetry to create ultra-precise point clouds and construct a detailed 3D model; field data verification, which will enable the creation of a detailed digital archive of the ruins; and engineering protection—the development and installation of barrier structures capable of preventing the deterioration of the ancient brickwork.
The initiative's main goal is to strengthen Turkmenistan's human resources and develop an innovative training course for future restorers. The digital replica of the Dandanakan Mosque, currently being created, will form the foundation for a scientifically sound restoration plan. This will ultimately allow the revitalized monument to become part of international tourism.
By combining the efforts of national experts with international support, Turkmenistan is demonstrating a consistent approach to protecting its historical heritage from global climate challenges. The implementation of advanced conservation standards strengthens the country's status as a key participant in the global dialogue on preserving human cultural heritage.
