History notes

Kyrgyzstan in 1900 year. Unique pictures of North of Kyrgyzstan.

Italian Prince Scipione Borghese in 1900 went on a trip to the Tien-Shan, together with the Swiss Matthias Tsurbriggen and compatriot Jules Brosherel. They crossed the north of present Kyrgyzstan, explored Enilchek valley (near Karakol)  and left a rich heritage of unique pictures.

Three Europeans crossed the modern Chui and Issyk-Kul regions and became one of the first European travelers who carefully documented life in little-known part of the Earth.

They conducted a detailed diary of the journey, and wrote a letter about it to their loved ones, some of which have survived. Here's how Prince Borghese described Issyk Kul Lake in a letter:

"There is a large lake with a huge range of snowy mountains behind it. I have rarely seen more beautiful sight! Just imagine: first go green steppe, then divine blue lake, foothills green stripe again, black forest mountains and all this is topped by a solid white stripe snow-capped peaks and glaciers! "

Nowadays, there is a great opportunity to discover this route by bicycle to get acquainted with the unique Kyrgyz nature and nomadic life.

 
Every evening travellers make notes about last day

Every evening travellers make notes about last day	Camping near Enilchek River
Caravan goes down to Kaindy valley	Grave near Enilchek valley
Entry to Sary-Jaz plateau	Crossing Enilchek-Suu River
Women from rich Kyrgyz families	Married Kyrgyz girl
Kyrgyz nomads watch Jules Brosherel makes picture of Kyrgyz women	Kyrgyz woman works with sheep’s wool
Every evening travellers make notes about last day	Prince Scipione Borghese (on the left) and Matthias Tsurbriggen in Ak-Moynok. North of Kyrgyzstan
“Il Gighita” – horseman	Man from Kaindy valley
Kyrgyz family	Nomads
Preparing for crossing the river	Crossing the river
Caravan of Kyrgyz people near Irtash valley	Wives of Kyrgyz man
Crossing Kyzyl-Tash River