What is gagauz?

The Gagauz people are a Turkic-speaking ethnic group that primarily resides in the autonomous region of Gagauzia in Moldova. They also have smaller populations in Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, and Bulgaria.

The Gagauz are known for their unique cultural identity, which includes a mix of Turkic, Bulgarian, and Romanian influences. They have their own language, Gagauz, which is a Turkic language that is closely related to Turkish.

The Gagauz people are predominantly Orthodox Christians, although some also adhere to the Muslim faith. They have a strong tradition of folklore, music, and dance, which is an important part of their cultural heritage.

In recent years, the Gagauz people have been working to preserve and promote their cultural identity, including efforts to revitalize the Gagauz language and traditions. In 1994, Gagauzia was granted autonomy within Moldova, allowing the Gagauz people to govern their own region and preserve their unique cultural heritage.