THE GEOGRAPHY OF CULTURAL SECTORS IN THE REPUBLIC OF KARAKALPAKSTAN

Abstract

This article analyzes the territorial formation, distribution, and development of cultural sectors in the Republic of Karakalpakstan from a geographical perspective. Particular attention is paid to the natural, historical, demographic, and socio-economic factors influencing the spatial distribution of cultural institutions, museums, theaters, libraries, historical and archaeological monuments, folk arts, and intangible cultural heritage. Nukus is considered the main cultural center, the areas along the Amu Darya are examined as important zones of historical and cultural heritage, while Muynak and the Aral Sea region are analyzed as areas where ecological history and cultural tourism are increasingly interconnected. The article also considers the prospects for the territorial development of cultural sectors in the region.