INVISIBLE GEOGRAPHIES HOW TECHNOLOGY HELPS RECOVER THE FORGOTTEN HISTORIES OF TURKESTAN REGION

Abstract

The paper examines at how digital innovation helps to preserve cultural heritage in Central Asia, with a focus on six sacred female places in Kazakhstan's Turkestan area. Despite their historical and spiritual value, these places are frequently overlooked in heritage and tourism narratives in favor of Koja Akhmet Yassawi's legacy. The study uses virtual storytelling, augmented reality, and digital mapping to show how technology can increase awareness, improve accessibility, and promote culturally sensitive, sustainable tourism. The study emphasizes the preservation of gendered spiritual history and suggests a digital framework for heritage promotion in the region.