Center of Asia, Obelisk monument in Kyzyl, Russia
The Center of Asia is a stone obelisk in Kyzyl, the capital of the Russian republic of Tuva. The construction reaches a height of about 40 feet (12 meters) and consists of a base with three reclining lions supporting a globe, above which rises a pointed column.
Engineers determined in the early 20th century that Kyzyl sits at the geographical midpoint of Asia, which led to the construction of the first marker. The sculpture was rebuilt several times over the following decades, most recently in 2014, while keeping the core design.
The structure displays carved dragons and other animals that carry symbolic meaning in Tuvan tradition. These figures are cut directly into the stone and form a continuous pattern across multiple faces of the construction.
A viewing platform with steps leads down from the main level to the banks of the Yenisei River, where you can see the marker from a different angle. Access is open and the surrounding area remains easy to walk through during the day.
The globe contains a map of the republic laid out with precious and semi-precious stones, with a golden stone marking the exact middle. This feature is visible only up close, as the stones are small and blend into the surface.
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