Rudaki park

Rudaki park, Dushanbe

Rudaki park, Dushanbe
Rudaki park, Dushanbe

In the heart of the left bank of Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe, sprawls Rudaki Park, a lush green oasis covering 8 hectares. Officially named «Bogi Rudaki,» this park is a cherished landmark, deeply rooted in the city’s history.

Established in the 1930s during the Soviet era, the park was originally known as the «V.I. Lenin Park of Culture and Leisure.» The central avenue was adorned with a bronze statue of Lenin, a replica of the monument near the Smolny Institute in Leningrad. The park featured numerous relaxation spots, fountains, an amusement area, and a sports ground. In 2007, the park underwent a significant renovation, emerging revitalized and with a new name, «Bogi Rudaki.»

The main avenue of the park leads to the Palace of Nations, the heart of this serene space. Here, a sculptural ensemble dedicated to the poet Abuabdullo Rudaki, the founder of Tajik-Persian poetry, stands as a tribute to his literary legacy. The park is ideal for leisurely strolls along its tranquil pathways, social gatherings, and romantic rendezvous.

At the center of Rudaki Square, a monument immortalizes the great Tajik-Persian poet. The statue, created by Abdulrahmanov and Usseinov, was erected in 1964 in the northern part of Dushanbe. A fountain and a lush green lawn stretch out before the bronze figure, enhancing the monument’s grandeur.

According to legend, Abuabdullo Rudaki was blind from birth, yet he received an excellent education, mastered Arabic and Persian, and pioneered poetry in Persian-Tajik. He is revered as one of the most esteemed poets in Tajik-Persian literature.

Behind the sculpture stands the Tajik Agrarian University, a majestic three-story building. Both the monument and the university are situated on a natural elevation, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the city’s central streets. The sculptural ensemble is also clearly visible from any point along Rudaki Avenue. This area is beloved by students and couples, and the Rudaki monument is often regarded as a symbol of the capital, frequently featured on postcards and souvenirs.