Renowned opera singer and director Konstantin Rittel-Kobylyansky shared his impressions of his trip to Turkmenistan, where he performed at the Vienna Ball in the new city of Arkadag in October 2024.
The artist was invited as a special guest by the President of the Austrian-Turkmen Society, Dr. Neda Berger, who, according to him, spoke enthusiastically about the country.
Konstantin Rittel-Kobylyansky described his impressions in an emotional address, noting the country's unique atmosphere:
"When I arrived in Ashgabat, starting with the beautiful airport shaped like a white bird, my delight increased a hundredfold," the musician shared.
The artist paid special attention to the architecture of Turkmen cities:
"The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, and the smart city of Arkadag amaze with their fairytale radiance and purity. White marble, wide avenues, delightful squares, majestic mosques and cultural centers, beautiful residential buildings, and sparkling fountains create images of cities that are simultaneously solemn and truly cozy."
Kobylyansky emphasized that the country's greatest treasure is its people:
"Turkmenistan's greatest asset is its people. The Turkmen people embody kindness, generosity, and hospitality. Here, every guest is welcomed with sincerity, a homely welcome, and a heartfelt welcome."
Summarizing his impressions, the artist concluded:
"Turkmenistan is an amazing country that's impossible not to fall in love with at first sight, at first date! A country where the heart feels at home. A country where people make the world around them a brighter place."
Konstantin Rittel-Kobylyansky is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the European Culture Foundation Prize at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, and is a board member of the Austrian-Turkmen Society for Culture and Media. In 2026, he will chair the international jury of the IV International Vocal Competition "Voice of Romance."
