Independence Square and Ezgulik Arch

Independence Square (Mustaqillik Maydoni) lies on Sharof Rashidov Avenue in the Yunusobod District of central Tashkent, Uzbekistan. In the Soviet period it was known as Lenin Square and was a ceremonial space for state parades. After Uzbekistan declared independence in 1991, it was renamed Independence Square, and the Lenin monument was replaced by a globe-shaped monument to independence, topped by the image of a mother holding a child, symbolising the new nation.

The square is a broad open space of fountains, lawns and paved promenades surrounded by government buildings, including the Senate and the Cabinet of Ministers, and the Ezgulik Arch. The Ezgulik Arch (Arch of Noble Aspirations) is a large gateway at the entrance to the square, crowned with sculptures of storks that symbolise good wishes. Together with the Independence Monument, the Memorial to the Victims of the Second World War and the Alley of Wisdom, the area is the centre of national commemoration. The Mourning Mother memorial pays tribute to those who died in the war.

The Tashkent area was heavily rebuilt after the devastating 1966 earthquake, and the square reflects the Soviet planning of that reconstruction as well as the later reshaping by independent Uzbekistan. It is mainly an outdoor civic landmark rather than a museum, and its interpretation relies on the monuments, plaques and surrounding buildings. Ceremonies and state events are held here, notably on Independence Day on 1 September.

The square is well maintained, with regular cleaning, lighting and landscaping, and security staff are present around government buildings. Visitors should avoid photographing official buildings and should follow staff instructions during events. The Ezgulik Arch and the monuments are easily reached on foot from the Amir Timur Museum and the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan.