Nestled on the outskirts of modern-day Turpan in the Chinese mainland, the Jiaohe ruins stand as a silent testament to an ancient city's rise and fall. For Gulbakram Mumin, however, this historic site is more than stone and earth – it's home.
Raised beside towering walls and winding streets, Mumin absorbed stories of Jiaohe from her father and grandfather. After earning a degree in history and heritage protection at university, she returned to follow in their footsteps as a cultural relics guardian at the very site where she grew up.
Today, Mumin blends academic expertise with deep-rooted devotion. She helps care for fragile structures, guides visitors through the mysteries of centuries-old ruins, and introduces people of all ages to the living history beneath their feet. Through community workshops and storytelling sessions, she ensures that young and old alike connect with the echoes of the past.
As guardians like Mumin keep ancient traditions alive, the Jiaohe ruins continue to inspire curiosity and pride across generations. Her journey reminds us that preserving heritage isn't just about safeguarding stones – it's about nurturing the stories and devotion that bring them to life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
