‘Tajikistan – it is a land full of treasures, but its main wealth lies in its children, its nobility and its culture.’ Inscribed on one of the impressive decorated ceilings of the Kohi Nowruz in Dushanbe, President Emomali Rahmon‘s words comment on the decorative splendour. The finesse of Tajik craftsmanship cannot fail to move the viewer. Paintings on plaster and wood carvings are displayed in the building’s 12 reception rooms. A colossal construction project completed in just four years, the Nowruz Palace has stood 50 metres tall since 2014, celebrating Tajik culture. It follows in the footsteps of the colossal architectural projects launched by the former Soviet leader, who has jealously guarded his power since 1997. A 40,000-square-metre architectural complex, the palace was initially designed to be a tea room in a modern national style. At the president’s instigation, it was enlarged to become the building that now houses restaurants, billiards, bowling, cinema, and more. The sheer size of the venue makes it a prime location for receptions. It hosted the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit when it opened. A showcase for national culture, the Nowruz Palace easily outshines the Rohat tea house a few streets away. A historic site of Tajik culture and a symbol of its capital, the teahouse had also been a gathering place for Tajik artisans since its opening in 1958. Built under the direction of Soviet architect K.N. Terletsky, this popular venue frequented by local residents was demolished in the spring of 2025. Despite protests from residents, high green hoardings covered the building before it was demolished. Perhaps there is only room for one national symbol. 

Credits : Mathieu Lemoine (France)

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