Turkmenistan

The National Flag of Turkmenistan

The national flag of Turkmenistan, recognized as a symbol of national pride and heritage, is distinct in its intricate design and rich symbolism. The flag of Turkmenistan features a green field with a vertical red stripe near the hoist, containing five traditional carpet guls stacked above two crossed olive branches. A white crescent moon and five white stars appear in the upper left corner, symbolizing Turkmenistan’s Islamic heritage and its five regions.

Turkmenistan Flag Clip Art Images, Background and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Turkmenistan Flag Image

To download an image of the Turkmenistan flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Turkmenistan Flag

The flag of Turkmenistan features a complex design that reflects the nation’s culture and values:

• Green Field: The green background represents Islam, the predominant religion of Turkmenistan, and symbolizes life and renewal.
• Red Stripe with Carpet Guls: The red vertical stripe showcases five carpet guls, traditional Turkmen motifs, representing the five major tribes of Turkmenistan and their unity.
• Crescent and Stars: The white crescent moon symbolizes a bright future, while the five stars represent the five regions (welayats) of Turkmenistan.
• Olive Branches: The crossed olive branches at the bottom of the red stripe symbolize peace and Turkmenistan’s neutrality.

The Origins and Design of the Turkmenistan Flag

The flag of Turkmenistan, adopted on February 19, 1992, following the country’s independence from the Soviet Union, reflects the cultural heritage and unity of the Turkmen people. The intricate design elements honor the nation’s historical ties to the traditional carpet-making culture and its commitment to peace and neutrality.

The Birth of a National Symbol

The flag of Turkmenistan was introduced after the country gained independence in 1991. Its design incorporates symbols significant to the nation’s identity, such as the carpet guls, which are unique to each Turkmen tribe, and the crescent and stars, linking the country to its Islamic roots.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbols on the flag of Turkmenistan are deeply rooted in the nation’s history and culture:

• Green Color: Symbolizes Islam and the natural wealth of the country.
• Red Stripe with Guls: Represents the nation’s historical craftsmanship in carpet weaving, a key aspect of Turkmen culture.
• Crescent and Stars: Reflect the nation’s hope for a prosperous future and its regional divisions.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Turkmenistan flag include the crescent moon, stars, and carpet guls:

• Crescent and Stars: The crescent moon symbolizes the future, while the five stars stand for the country’s five regions, emphasizing unity.
• Carpet Guls: These motifs are a homage to Turkmenistan’s rich tradition in carpet making and represent the main tribes of the nation.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The current design of the Turkmenistan flag was officially adopted on February 19, 1992. It has remained unchanged since, as a steadfast symbol of Turkmenistan’s independence, cultural heritage, and dedication to peace and neutrality.

The Flag in Modern Turkmen Identity

Today, the flag of Turkmenistan is a powerful emblem of national pride and is prominently displayed during national holidays, official events, and international representations. It symbolizes the country’s rich cultural heritage, sovereignty, and commitment to neutrality.

The Significance of the Turkmenistan Flag

The flag of Turkmenistan is a revered national symbol, representing the country’s rich history, culture, and unity. Displaying the Turkmenistan flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific rules and on designated days of national importance.

When the Flag of Turkmenistan Can Be Displayed

The flag of Turkmenistan may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, in schools, at government institutions, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are encouraged to display the flag at their homes during national holidays and important commemorations.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In Turkmenistan, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• February 19 – National Flag Day: This day celebrates the adoption of the Turkmenistan flag in 1992. Ceremonies across the country honor the flag, and people are encouraged to display it proudly.
• Independence Day: Celebrated on September 27, this holiday marks Turkmenistan’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The flag is central to the celebrations, symbolizing the nation’s sovereignty.
• Neutrality Day: Observed on December 12, this day commemorates Turkmenistan’s declaration of permanent neutrality, and the flag is prominently featured in celebrations and parades.

Love for the Flag and Patriotism

The Turkmenistan flag is more than just a national symbol; it represents the pride and unity of the Turkmen people. The design, featuring traditional motifs and symbols, embodies the nation’s cultural heritage and aspirations. On national holidays, particularly National Flag Day, the flag is displayed everywhere—from homes and public spaces to official buildings. Schools instill respect for the flag from a young age, often incorporating flag ceremonies into daily routines.

Turkmenistan Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1F9 U+1F1F2
• UTF-16: D83C DDF9 D83C DDF2

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇹🇲
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇹🇲

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F9\1F1F2";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const tmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2";

// Java Example
String tmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$tmFlag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F2}";

// Ruby Example
tm_flag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F2}"

6. Perl

my $tmFlag = "\x{1F1F9}\x{1F1F2}";

7. Python

tm_flag = "\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F2"

8. C#

string tmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2";

9. Swift

let tmFlag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F2}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *tmFlag = @"\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F2";

11. JSON

{
  "tmFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

tm_flag=$'\U1F1F9\U1F1F2'

14. Go (Golang)

tmFlag := "\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F2"

15. Kotlin

val tmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF2"

About Turkmenistan

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and northeast, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. The diverse geography of Turkmenistan includes:

• Mountain ranges, such as the Kopet Dag in the south and the Koytendag in the east
• The vast Karakum Desert, which covers much of the country
• Oases, like those found around the cities of Ashgabat and Mary
• Coastline along the Caspian Sea, providing access to marine resources
• Major rivers, including the Amu Darya, which forms part of the border with Uzbekistan
• Unique geological formations, such as the Darvaza gas crater

Turkmenistan Map

Area and Population

Turkmenistan covers an area of approximately 491,210 square kilometers, making it the 52nd largest country in the world by area. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 6 million people, making it one of the least densely populated countries in Central Asia.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

Turkmenistan is predominantly inhabited by the Turkmen people, with other ethnic groups also contributing to the country’s cultural diversity. The ethnic composition includes:

• Turkmen: approximately 85% of the population
• Uzbeks: around 5%
• Russians: about 4%
• Kazakhs, Tatars, Armenians, and other groups make up the remaining population

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Turkmenistan”

The name “Turkmenistan” derives from the Persian word “Turkmen,” which refers to the people who inhabit the region. The suffix “-stan” means “land of” in Persian, so Turkmenistan means “Land of the Turkmen.” The country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since been known as Turkmenistan.

History

Turkmenistan has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with various civilizations having inhabited the region. Key historical events include:

• The Silk Road, which connected the region to major trading routes between Asia and Europe
• The Mongol invasions in the 13th century, which significantly impacted the region
• Incorporation into the Russian Empire in the late 19th century
• Becoming part of the Soviet Union in 1924 and gaining independence in 1991

Government and Politics

Capital

Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan. As the seat of the government, it is home to important institutions like the Presidential Palace, the Parliament, and various ministries.

Government and Politics

Turkmenistan operates as a presidential republic, where the President holds significant executive power. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial. The country has a single-party system dominated by the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan.

Values and Culture

Core values in Turkmenistan include respect for elders, hospitality, and a strong sense of community. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and handicrafts.

Religion

Islam is the predominant religion in Turkmenistan, practiced by the majority of the population, primarily Sunni Muslims. The country also has small communities of Orthodox Christians and other faiths.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Turkmenistan include:

• Independence Day on September 27
• National Flag Day on February 19
• Navruz Bayram (Persian New Year) on March 21
• Religious holidays like Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha) and Oraza Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) are also celebrated

Demographics and Society

Language

The official language of Turkmenistan is Turkmen, spoken by the vast majority of the population. Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among ethnic minorities.

Society and Sports

Turkmenistan is a society that values traditions and cultural heritage, with sports playing an important role in daily life. Wrestling is the most popular sport, followed by soccer, horse racing, and various traditional games. The country has hosted major sporting events, including the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.

Safety

Turkmenistan is generally considered safe for residents and tourists, with a low crime rate. However, travel restrictions are in place in certain areas, and visitors are advised to stay informed about local laws and customs.

Economy and Currency

Economy

Turkmenistan has a growing economy largely driven by its natural gas and oil reserves. Key economic sectors include:

• Natural gas production and export
• Petroleum and petrochemical industries
• Agriculture, particularly cotton and wheat production
• Textile manufacturing

The economy is influenced by state control and efforts to diversify beyond hydrocarbon resources.

Currency

The official currency of Turkmenistan is the Turkmen manat (TMT), symbolized by “m” and subdivided into 100 tenge.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Turkmen culture is deeply rooted in its nomadic heritage, with significant contributions to arts, music, and literature. The country is known for its traditional carpets, distinctive music and dance, and oral storytelling traditions.

Cuisine

Turkmen cuisine is characterized by its use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Key elements include:

• Plov, a rice dish with meat and vegetables
• Shashlik, skewered and grilled meat
• Chorek, a traditional bread baked in a clay oven

The cuisine reflects the country’s nomadic past and cultural influences from neighboring regions.

National Anthem

The national anthem of Turkmenistan, “Garaşsyz, Bitarap Türkmenistanyň Döwlet Gimni,” was adopted in 1996. The lyrics celebrate the country’s independence, neutrality, and pride in its heritage.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Turkmenistan has a developing transportation network, including roads, railways, and airports. The capital, Ashgabat, is the main hub for air travel and serves as a gateway to international destinations. The country also has a growing public transit system.

Time Zones

Turkmenistan operates on Turkmenistan Time (TMT), which is UTC+5.

Web and Phone Code

Turkmenistan’s internet country code is “.tm,” and its international dialing code is +993.

Turkmenistan: Things to See and Do

Turkmenistan is a country of unique landscapes, rich history, and cultural traditions, offering diverse experiences for travelers. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Turkmenistan:

Explore Historical Sites

Turkmenistan is home to several ancient ruins and historical landmarks.

• Merv: An ancient city that was once one of the most important stops on the Silk Road, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Kunya-Urgench: A medieval city with well-preserved monuments and mausoleums, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Nisa: The ruins of an ancient Parthian city located near Ashgabat, showcasing early Persian architecture.

Visit the Karakum Desert

Experience the vastness of the Karakum Desert, which dominates much of the country’s landscape.

• Darvaza Gas Crater: Also known as the “Door to Hell,” this burning gas crater has been a popular tourist attraction for decades.
• Yangykala Canyon: A stunning canyon with colorful rock formations and breathtaking views.

Savor the Cuisine

Explore the flavors of Turkmen cuisine, influenced by the country’s history and culture. Must-try foods include:

• Plov: A hearty rice dish with meat, carrots, and spices, often considered the national dish.
• Shashlik: Grilled skewers of meat, commonly served with fresh herbs and bread.

Explore Vibrant Cities

Turkmenistan’s cities offer a blend of modernity and tradition, each with unique attractions.

• Ashgabat: The capital city, known for its white marble buildings, monuments, and extensive parks.
• Mary: A city near the ancient ruins of Merv, offering insights into the region’s history and culture.

Visit Natural Wonders

Turkmenistan has a variety of natural landscapes, from mountains to deserts and oases.

• Kopet Dag Mountains: A range that forms the natural border with Iran, offering hiking and wildlife opportunities.
• Karakum Desert: The country’s largest desert, known for its unique landscapes and traditional way of life.

Participate in Cultural Festivals

Turkmenistan hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, celebrating its heritage and traditions.

• Independence Day: Celebrated on September 27 with parades, concerts, and fireworks in Ashgabat and other cities.
• Navruz Bayram: A traditional festival marking the Persian New Year, celebrated with music, dance, and special foods.

Relax in Quaint Towns

For a more laid-back experience, visit one of Turkmenistan’s smaller towns and villages.

• Balkanabat: A town near the Caspian Sea, known for its proximity to the Yangykala Canyon and other natural attractions.
• Turkmenbashi: A port city on the Caspian Sea, offering a mix of Soviet-era architecture and scenic coastal views.

Discover Underwater Wonders

The Caspian Sea offers unique opportunities for water-based activities.

• Avaza: A resort area on the Caspian Sea coast, known for its beaches, resorts, and water sports.