Peter Scott explores Kabardino-Balkaria, a mountainous republic of striking landscapes and ancient traditions. Here, local culture is preserved through dance, costume and craftsmanship.
Ethnographer Galimat Makoeva explains the traditional Kafa dance. It was once performed exclusively by princes. The music is lively, yet the dancers move with restraint and grace. Partners barely touch — such is the custom.
Clapping was once believed to protect against the 'evil eye', while a dancer’s costume revealed much about its wearer. For instance, the colour of a woman’s dress indicated her age and social status.
Peter also visits the home of craftswoman Asiyat, where he learns how a burka is made — a heavy felt cloak for horsemen that provides shelter and protection from the cold on long journeys. In Khamzat’s forge, Peter discovers how a dagger is crafted from layered steel — a symbol of honour and freedom in the Caucasus.
