Central Column and Independence Columns

　　    In the presidential square in the center of Ashgabat, stands the Arch of Neutrality, symbolizing Turkmenistan’s status as a neutral country. The three supporting columns represent the three inseparable foundations of the nation: independence, neutrality, and national unity. In the southern part of Ashgabat, there stands the Independence Column, symbolizing Turkmenistan as an independent sovereign state. The column above the base is 91 meters tall, representing the year 1991 when Turkmenistan gained independence. October 27th, “Independence Day,” and December 12th, “Neutrality Day,” have become the most important and grandest holidays in Turkmenistan. At the same time, the Arch of Neutrality and the Independence Column have also become major landmarks and tourist attractions in Ashgabat.