Памятник Махтумкули, Monument to poet in central Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
The Makhtumkuli monument shows a grey basalt figure of the seated poet holding a manuscript, rising from natural stone formations. The composition sits on a rock pedestal surrounded by fountains and green spaces.
The monument was completed in 1971 and stands where the world's first Bahai temple once stood. That building was destroyed in 1948 by an earthquake before the poet's memorial was constructed.
The monument honors Makhtumkuli, whose works shaped the development of the Turkmen language and literature. Its presence at this central location shows the poet's importance to the nation's identity.
The monument is located on Makhtumkuli Avenue across from the Interior Ministry building in the city center. The area is easily walkable and well-equipped with public spaces, making it comfortable to spend time here.
The artwork was created by Armenian stonemasons S. Grigoryan and G. Oganesyan, who carved the grey basalt figure from natural stone blocks. Their craftsmanship shows the care and skill invested in bringing this memorial to life.
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