Bitaraplyk binasy (Turkmen) | |
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| Location | Bitarap Turkmenistan Avenue, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan |
|---|---|
| Builder | Polimeks |
| Type | Arch |
| Height | 95 m (312 ft) |
| Completion date | 1998 |
Monument of Neutrality (Turkmen: Bitaraplyk arkasy) is a monument originally located in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. In 2010, it was moved to the suburbs. The three-legged arch, which became known locally as "The Tripod",[1] was 75 metres (246 ft) tall and was built in 1998 on the orders of the president of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat Niyazov, to commemorate the country's official position of neutrality.[2] It cost $12 million to construct. The monument was topped by a 12-metre (39 ft) tall gold-plated statue of Niyazov which rotated to always face the sun.[2][3] The arch was located in central Ashgabat where it dominated the skyline, being taller than the nearby Presidential Palace.[2] The statue was illuminated at night. The arch featured a panoramic viewing platform which was a popular attraction for visitors.[2]