Neutrality Arch

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The Neutrality Arch is a monument located in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The tallest structure in the capital, it was erected by president-for-life Saparmurat Niyazov to commemorate Turkmenistan's official neutrality. It features ornate inscriptions and a glass elevator. Atop the monument is a gold-plated statue of Niyazov which rotates 360 degrees over 24 hours so as to always face the sun. The tripod design was inspired by a traditional Turkmen trivet. Construction of the arch was completed in 1998. In 2008, the statue was ordered to be moved to a highway at the edge of the city, by Niyazov's successor, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov.

[edit] References

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/7382512.stm

• Neutrality Arch is at coordinates 37°56′13″N 58°22′48″E / 37.936944, 58.380000 (Neutrality Arch)Coordinates: 37°56′13″N 58°22′48″E / 37.936944, 58.380000 (Neutrality Arch)