History and Location of Turkmenistan
Imagine a place where the endless desert hides not only historical secrets, but also one of the most isolated and intriguing societies on the planet. Welcome to Turkmenistan, a country so unique it's hard to believe it really exists.
Here, independence from the former Soviet Union gave rise to a regime that is as authoritarian as it is peculiar, with laws and customs that seem straight out of a dystopian plot. Want to know why this place is called "the North Korea of Central Asia"?
Get ready to discover surreal curiosities, fascinating stories and a culture that defies any notion of normality.
The Marble Capital: Ashgabat and Its Unique Architecture
The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, stands out for its unmistakable landscape. Covered in white marble buildings and grandiose monuments, the city is a display of luxury and eccentricity that contrasts with the living conditions of the population.
Ashgabat has even been recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the city with the highest concentration of white marble buildings in the world. This unique look is the result of a series of ambitious architectural projects that reflect the extravagant taste of the rulers.
The city is adorned with golden statues and monuments celebrating the country's leadership, a common practice in authoritarian regimes. For the locals, Ashgabat is a symbol of both pride and restriction, with its strict rules and spaces designed more to impress visitors than to meet the needs of the locals.
Control and Eccentricities of Turkmenistan's Leader
Turkmenistan's leaders are known for their eccentric and often unusual policies. One of the most curious examples is the ban on black cars in the capital, a decision that is believed to have been made due to the personal preferences of the leader, who considers white cars symbols of luck and prosperity. Thus, many citizens were forced to repaint their vehicles or even change them to suit the government's preference.
Another curious point is the government's interference in everyday life through changes to the calendar. In an attempt to leave his own legacy, one of the country's former leaders renamed months of the year after family members and himself. This practice, although now abandoned, reflects the way in which Turkmenistan's leaders influence even the most trivial details of public and private life.
How the Press is Controlled in the Country
A Press freedom in Turkmenistan is practically non-existent. The government strictly controls the media, allowing only information favorable to the regime to reach the public. Criticism and stories on social issues are heavily censored, and the internet is limited to a state-controlled version.
For citizens, this means a life disconnected from the rest of the world, without access to outside information or the social networks that are part of everyday life in other countries. The news that reaches the population is filtered and shaped to promote the positive image of the government and avoid any kind of opposition.
Limited freedoms: Travel Restrictions and Leaving the Country
Another restrictive aspect of life in Turkmenistan is the difficulty of leaving the country. The government imposes severe travel restrictionsThis makes it difficult for citizens to travel abroad. In order to obtain a travel permit, it is necessary to go through bureaucratic processes and applications are often denied without clear justification.
For many, the possibility of leaving and returning to the country is almost a utopia, creating an environment of strong repression and control.
Women Are Forbidden to Sit in the Front Seat of Cars
In addition to regulating broad issues such as transportation and travel, the government of Turkmenistan imposes a number of special rules that directly interfere with everyday life.
For example, in some regions, women are banned from sitting in the front seat of vehiclesThis is a rule that not only limits women's freedom, but also demonstrates the bizarre control exercised by the government over society.
The day-to-day life of citizens is punctuated by strict rules, from what haircut is allowed to how people dress.
Curiosities and Unique Cultural Aspects
Despite the restrictions, the Turkmenistan has a rich culture and full of unique traditions. The heritage of the Silk Road has brought marked influences, especially in local handicrafts such as carpets and jewelry, which are highly valued.
For anyone visiting Turkmenistan, the contrast between traditional culture and restrictive regulations creates a unique experience. The desert landscapes of Karakum, combined with the modern architecture of Ashgabat, reveal a country full of contradictions, where ancient history and modern control coexist in a peculiar and intriguing balance.
A Curious Look at Turkmenistan
For those seeking to understand what it is like to live in the most restrictive and peculiar country in the world, Turkmenistan offers a curious and provocative insight into what is possible within the borders of a regime of total control.
