Arch of Neutrality
Ahal
The Arch of Neutrality, also known as the Neutrality Monument, is an iconic tripod-shaped monument and observation tower located in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Built in 1998 by the Turkish construction firm Polimeks on the orders of President Saparmurat Niyazov, it commemorates Turkmenistan's official policy of neutrality. The structure stands 75 meters tall and was originally situated in the city center, towering higher than the Presidential Palace. At its summit was a 12-meter tall gold-plated statue of Niyazov, which uniquely rotated to always face the sun. The monument includes a panoramic viewing platform accessible via inclined elevators built into its three legs, offering visitors sweeping views of Ashgabat. In 2010, under President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, the monument was dismantled and relocated to the southern suburbs of the city as part of an urban redesign and efforts to reduce the personality cult surrounding Niyazov. The golden statue was removed but later reinstalled without its rotating feature. The monument remains a significant symbol of Turkmenistan's neutrality and is open to visitors. Plans for a renovation starting in 2025 include landscaping, transport infrastructure modernization, and lighting upgrades incorporating the colors of the United Nations flag to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the opening hours of the panoramic viewing platform before visiting, as it is usually accessible to the public. The best time to visit is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views of Ashgabat. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance when possible to avoid queues. Look out for any available discounts for students or groups. The monument is more peaceful to visit on weekdays, avoiding weekend crowds.
Faits intéressants
- •The monument is locally known as "The Tripod" due to its three-legged arch design.
- •The golden statue of Saparmurat Niyazov atop the monument was 12 meters tall and rotated to face the sun.
- •At 75 meters tall, the monument was once taller than Ashgabat's Presidential Palace.
- •The monument was dismantled and moved from central Ashgabat to the southern suburbs in 2010.
- •Renovation plans for 2025 include incorporating colors of the United Nations flag in the lighting design.
Histoire
The Arch of Neutrality was constructed in 1998 as a symbol of Turkmenistan's official stance of neutrality, commissioned by President Saparmurat Niyazov.
Originally located in central Ashgabat, it was notable for its height and the rotating golden statue atop it.
In 2010, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow ordered the monument's dismantling and relocation to the city's southern suburbs to improve urban design and diminish Niyazov's personality cult.
The statue was removed but later reinstalled without its rotation feature.
Starting in 2025, the monument is set to undergo renovation to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Turkmen neutrality.
Guide du lieu
Tripod Arch Structure1998
The main three-legged arch structure stands 75 meters tall and forms the iconic shape of the monument, symbolizing Turkmenistan's neutrality.
Panoramic Viewing Platform1998
Located at the top of the arch, this platform offers sweeping views of Ashgabat and the surrounding area, accessible by inclined elevators.
Golden Statue of Saparmurat Niyazov1998
A 12-meter tall gold-plated statue of the first president of Turkmenistan originally rotated to face the sun but now remains stationary.