The Ashgabat Wedding Palace opened its doors in 2011, to mark the 20th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, and quickly became one of the city’s most recognisable and iconic landmarks. 
Located in the south-western part of Ashgabat, this monumental building is recognisable by its five upper storeys, comprising a glass sphere encased within six concrete and white marble Turkmen stars. Maps of Turkmenistan, crafted from titanium, adorn the sphere. Some people like to joke that it resembles a disco ball, which is fitting for this building named ‘Bagt Koshgi’ (Palace of Happiness).

The interior of the palace, decorated in the Turkmen style, comprises, in addition to administrative offices, reception rooms, wedding shops, cafés, a photography studio, a beauty salon and even a 22-room hotel where anyone can spend the night.

Photo credits : Anton Pfaller (Germany, @apr_jnr)

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