Neutrality Arch

Inside the «Three-Legged Monument,» there is a museum dedicated to the concept of neutrality and observation decks offering panoramic views. Initially, the «Bitarap Binasi» stood next to the presidential palace in the city center, but in 2010, it was dismantled and a year later reappeared at the end of Neutrality Avenue («Batarap Şaholy») on the southern edge of Ashgabat.

The multi-level structure, topped with the golden statue of Turkmenbashi, is supported by three powerful pylons arranged at 120-degree angles. The central axis of the monument features a panoramic elevator leading to several observation platforms, while the lower level houses the Museum of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality. Two of the pylons have funicular-like elevators for access, while the rear pylon is equipped with a staircase.

The composition at the top of the monument, featuring Golden Niyazov with the fluttering national flag, once rotated with the sun, completing a full revolution daily. Today, this rotation has ceased.

The monument follows traditional Turkmen design elements, clad in white marble and adorned with numerous eight-pointed stars and national motifs. The structure is decorated with bas-reliefs depicting various scenes from Turkmen history.

To reach the monument, located at the end of Neutrality Avenue, you can take bus number 8 from Tekin Bazaar. The backdrop of the monument features the imposing Kopetdag mountains. Surrounding the monument is a large park with numerous fountains.

Approximately 150 meters from the arch, there is a ticket booth where you can purchase admission to the museum. After buying your ticket, an elevator will take you up to the museum.

Inside the museum, there is an atmosphere of emptiness and sterility. Each of the three rooms features a portrait of the president. One room displays the text of the Declaration of Neutrality, approved by the UN General Assembly, while another showcases a world map with small dots indicating locations of Turkmenistan’s embassies. Each room contains precious metal and stone artifacts, typically globes marked with milestones such as «10 Years of Neutrality» and «15 Years of Neutrality.» The primary attraction of the museum is the observation decks offering expansive views of Ashgabat and its surroundings.