Photo: Courtesy of the Altay Museum of the Origin of Human Skiing
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MKsports Altay Prefecture, located in the northern part of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has long been celebrated as the origin of human skiing. On Thursday, it adds another feather to its cap with the opening of the Altay Museum of the Origin of Human Skiing, a new landmark dedicated to preserving and showcasing the region's rich skiing heritage.
In 2005, cave paintings depicting Altay people hunting on skis with poles were discovered in the Dundebulak rock art complex. Archaeologists estimate that the paintings could be more than 10,000 years old. Since then, Altay has been recognized by many as one of the birthplaces of skiing, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
Zhu Dandan, director of the museum, explained the significance of the museum's naming to the Global Times on Thursday. "The decision to build this museum was based on the abundant historical evidence and the cultural traditions of Altay," Zhu said.
"We established this museum to commemorate and exhibit this unique cultural heritage while boosting local tourism. It is expected to strengthen Altay's status in the global skiing community and share Altay's fascinating history with visitors worldwide," Zhu remarked.
The museum covers a total area of 3,035 square meters and offers a comprehensive look into the origin and development of skiing, particularly in the Altay region. Its exhibits feature an array of artifacts and historical materials related to skiing, including replicas of the Dundebulak skiing-hunting rock paintings, ancient fur skis, and ski poles. These items not only highlight the region's long-standing skiing history but also showcase the ingenuity and practices of ancient Altay people in using skis for hunting and transportation.
Photo: Courtesy of the Altay Museum of the Origin of Human Skiing
According to Zhu, the exhibits in the museum are divided into four main sections: "Tracing: Origin from Snow, Cradle of Skiing," "Verification: Declaration Process, Glorious History," "Leap: Green Mountains and Clear Water, Charming Snow City," and "Blooming: Snow Dance, Ice and Snow Festival."
These sections intertwine history with modernity, culture with economy, and regional characteristics with an international perspective, showcasing Altay's profound cultural heritage and remarkable socioeconomic achievements, which emphasize the confidence and relentless exploration demonstrated by the people of Altay and experts in preserving and promoting ancient skiing culture, Zhu told the Global Times.
On the museum's opening day, ski historians, scholars, and enthusiasts from across the country gathered to witness this moment. To commemorate this occasion, Altay planned a series of events, including activities to commemorate Altay as the birthplace of human skiing, the second Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Winter Games featuring a traditional fur ski competition, and a gala for the museum's inauguration.
Zhu expressed the hope that the museum will become a shining emblem of Altay's ice and snow tourism.
"The official opening of the museum offers visitors and ski enthusiasts a chance to closely experience the region's ancient and rich skiing culture. It will also serve as a highlight in Altay's ice and snow tourism, showcasing the area's deep cultural and historical significance as the birthplace of human skiing," Zhu said.
Located on the southern slopes of the Altai Mountains, the city of Altay boasts prime skiing conditions, including exceptional snow quality, consistent snowfall, and ideal temperatures. The whole Altay Prefecture, where the city is located, has invested nearly 7 billion yuan ($954.7 million) in recent years to build nine ski resorts, aiming to become a global winter sports destination. The Altay Museum of the Origin of Human Skiing is located near the Jiangjunshan International Ski Resort.
