Xinjiang: A living tapestry of intangible cultural heritage

The Epic of Manas

The Epic of Manas is one of the world's greatest oral traditions and a cultural cornerstone of the Kyrgyz people in Xinjiang's Kizilsu Kirghiz autonomous prefecture. Passed down through generations by skilled bards, it has been sung for more than a thousand years.

The epic recounts the heroic exploits of Manas, a legendary folk hero, and eight generations of his descendants. Through tales of battles against invaders and the defense of their homeland, it embodies the Kyrgyz people's indomitable spirit, unity and yearning for freedom. Beyond its narrative, Manas serves as a cultural encyclopedia, preserving knowledge of Kyrgyz history, geography, religion, economy, customs and values.

With over 234,000 lines—19 times the length of Homer's Odyssey—the Epic of Manas is among the longest epics in the world. It remains a living tradition, performed with rhythmic chanting and accompanied by music, continuing to inspire Kyrgyz identity and pride. In 2009, it was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.