The textbook is devoted to key issues of culture, which is analyzed as a complex multi-level system, including various spheres: customs and morals of peoples, religion, material culture, art, science. The author's concept examines the culture of leading countries of different eras from the primitive world to modern times. An analysis of trends in the cultural development of regions is given, as well as a brief description of the characteristics of these processes. Each topic contains a methodological part, including questions and a list of recommended literature. The textbook is recommended by the Educational and Methodological Council of TSASU. Designed for the preparation of bachelors in the field of 03/08/01 “Construction”, and will also be useful to anyone interested in the history of world culture and religion.