Editing Ashgabat

{{Short description|Capital and largest city of Turkmenistan}}
{{Redirect|Ashkhabad|the Turkmen folklore band|Ashkhabad (band)|the Second World War merchant ship|SS Ashkhabad}}
{{redirect|Aşgabat|the TV channel|Aşgabat (TV channel)}}
{{For|the cities in Iran|Eshqabad (disambiguation)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2024}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name               = Ashgabat
| settlement_type    = [[Capital city]]
| other_name         = 
| native_name        = {{lang|tk|Aşgabat|italics=on}}
| nickname           = White Marble City<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/84019/ashgabat-celebrates-city-day|title=Ashgabat celebrates the City Day|date=May 23, 2024|website=turkmenistan.gov.tm}}</ref>
| motto              = 
| image_skyline      = {{multiple image
| total_width              = 280
| border                   = infobox
| perrow                   = 1/2/2
| caption_align = center
| image1 = View of Ashgabat (42376779291).jpg
| caption1 = Central Ashgabat
| image2 =   Independence Monument (27506800337).jpg
| caption2 = [[Independence Monument (Turkmenistan)|Independence Monument]]
| image3 = Wedding Palace, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan (1).jpg
| caption3 = [[Wedding Palace (Ashgabat)|Wedding Palace]]
| image4 = Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque (5731109818).jpg
| caption4 = [[Türkmenbaşy Ruhy Mosque]]
| image5 = Ashgabat in Snow Jan 2023.jpg
| caption5 = Residential buildings
}}
| imagesize          = 
| image_caption      = 
| image_flag         = 
| image_blank_emblem = Logo of Ashgabat.svg
| blank_emblem_size  = 150px
| image_seal         = Ashgabat (seal).svg
| seal_size          = 150px
| image_shield       = 
| shield_alt         = 
| pushpin_map        = Turkmenistan#Asia
| pushpin_relief     = yes
| map_caption        = 
| subdivision_type   = Country
| subdivision_type1  = [[Provinces of Turkmenistan|Province]]
| subdivision_name   = {{flag|Turkmenistan}}
| government_type    = [[Presidential system|Presidential]]<ref name=HM>{{Cite web|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/w/images/0/0f/19921214_XM-6.pdf|title=Türkmenistanyň Halk Maslahatynyň Çözgüdi HM-6 14 December 1992}}</ref>
| leader_title       = [[Mayor of Ashgabat|Mayor]]
| leader_name        = Rahym Nurgeldiyewic Gandymow (since 9 June 2021)
<ref>{{cite web 
|url = https://tdh.gov.tm/tk/post/27988/turkmenistanyn-prezidentinin-gol-ceken-resminamalary 
|title = Türkmenistanyň Prezidentiniň gol çeken resminamalary 
|website = TDH 
|date = 2021-07-09 
|publisher =Turkmenistan State News Agency (TDH) - Turkmenistan Today 
|language = en 
|access-date = 2021-07-09 
|archive-date = 2022-08-05 
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220805011532/https://tdh.gov.tm/tk/post/27988/turkmenistanyn-prezidentinin-gol-ceken-resminamalary}}</ref>
| established_title  = Founded
| established_date   = 1881
| area_magnitude     = 
| area_total_km2     = 470
| area_water_percent = 
| population_as_of   = 2022 census
| parts_type         = Districts
| parts              = [[Districts of Ashgabat|4 districts]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mfa.gov.tm/en/articles/2|title=General information|website=www.mfa.gov.tm}}</ref>
| population_footnotes = <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.citypopulation.de/en/turkmenistan/|title=Turkmenistan: Regions, Major Cities & Towns - Population Statistics, Maps, Charts, Weather and Web Information|website=www.citypopulation.de}}</ref>
| population_total   = 1,030,063
| population_density_km2 = auto
| timezone           = [[Turkmenistan Time|TMT]]
| utc_offset         = +05:00
| timezone_DST       = 
| coordinates        = {{coord|37|56|15|N|58|22|48|E|region:TM_type:city|display=inline,title}}
| elevation_m        = 273
| elevation_ft       = 
| postal_code_type   = Postal code
| postal_code        = 744000–744040
| area_code          = (+993) 12
| registration_plate = AG
| website            = {{URL|http://ashgabat.gov.tm/en/|ashgabat.gov.tm}}
| footnotes          = 
| official_name      = 
| blank_emblem_type  = Logo
| blank1_name        = [[International Airport]]s
| blank1_info        = [[Ashgabat International Airport]]
| blank2_name        = [[Rapid transit system]]
| blank2_info        = [[Ashgabat Monorail]]
}}
'''Ashgabat''' ([[Turkmen language|Turkmen]]: ''Aşgabat''){{efn|{{IPAc-en|ˌ|ɑː|ʃ|g|ə|ˈ|b|ɑː|t}} or {{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɑː|ʃ|g|ə|b|æ|t}};<ref>{{Cite Collins Dictionary|Ashgabat|access-date=2023-12-01}}</ref>}}{{efn|{{langx|tk|Aşgabat}}, {{IPA|tk|ɑʃɢɑˈbɑt|}};<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/ashgabat|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181123154114/https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/ashgabat|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 23, 2018|title=Ashgabat {{!}} Definition of Ashgabat in English by Oxford Dictionaries|website=Oxford Dictionaries {{!}} English|access-date=2018-11-23}}</ref> {{langx|fa|عشق‌آباد|translit=Ešqābād}}}} is the [[capital city|capital]] and largest city of [[Turkmenistan]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/26087/zakon-turkmenistana-%3Cbr%3Eo-statuse-stolitsy-turkmenistana|title=ЗАКОН ТУРКМЕНИСТАНА О статусе столицы Туркменистана|date=April 12, 2016|website=turkmenistan.gov.tm}}</ref> It lies between the [[Karakum Desert]] and the [[Kopet Dag|Kopetdag]] mountain range in [[Central Asia]], approximately 50&nbsp;km (30&nbsp;mi) away from the [[Iran-Turkmenistan border]]. The city has a population of 1,030,063 (2022 census).
[[File:Ashgabat, Turkmenistan Astronaut Imagery.JPG|thumb|Satellite view of Ashgabat]]

The city was founded in 1881 on the basis of an Ahal [[Teke (Turkmen tribe)|Teke]] tribal village, and made the capital of the [[Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic]] in 1924 when it was known as '''Poltoratsk.'''{{efn|The name was used from 1919 to 1927. {{lang-rus|Полтора́цк|p=pəltɐˈratsk}}}} Much of the city was destroyed by the [[1948 Ashgabat earthquake]], but has since been extensively rebuilt under the rule of [[Saparmurat Niyazov]]'s "White City" urban renewal project,<ref>{{cite news|title=Turkmenistan: Government Orders People Out Of Their Homes In Name Of 'Urban Renewal' |newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |access-date=November 22, 2017 |url=https://www.rferl.org/a/1053964.html |date=July 21, 2004  |last1=Pannier |first1=Bruce }}</ref> resulting in monumental projects sheathed in costly white marble.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Scott|first=Noel|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UwnF6e_95nQC&q=ashgabat+marble&pg=PA132|title=Tourism in the Muslim World|date=2010-10-28|publisher=Emerald Group Publishing|isbn=978-1-84950-920-6|language=en}}</ref> The Soviet-era [[Karakum Canal]] runs through the city, carrying waters from the [[Amu Darya]] from east to west.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indianembassy-tm.org/bilateral.html |title=Brief Note on Turkmenistan |website=Embassy of India, Ashgabat |access-date=June 10, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218072835/http://www.indianembassy-tm.org/bilateral.html |archive-date=February 18, 2014  }}</ref>

Today, as the capital of an independent Turkmenistan, Ashgabat retains a multiethnic population, with ethnic Turkmen as the majority. In 2021, it celebrated 140 years of its written history.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/53653/ashhabad-140-let-voploshchenie-dostizhenij-nezavisimosti|title=Ашхабад-140 лет: воплощение достижений независимости|date=April 19, 2021|website=turkmenistan.gov.tm}}</ref>

==Etymology==
Ashgabat is called ''Aşgabat'' in [[Turkmen language|Turkmen]], ({{langx|ru|Ашхабад|Ashkhabad}}) in [[Russian language|Russian]] from 1925 to 1991, and {{lang|fa|عشق‌آباد}} ({{italics correction|'''Ešqābād''}}) in [[Persian language|Persian]]. Before 1991, the name was usually spelled '''Ashkhabad''' in English, a transliteration of the Russian form. It has also been variously spelled Ashkhabat and Ashgabad. From 1919 until 1927, the city was renamed Poltoratsk after a local revolutionary, [[Pavel Poltoratskiy]].<ref name=Ashkhabad>{{cite book|script-title=ru:Ашхабад|last=Клычев|first=Анна-Мухамед|language=ru|publisher=Изд-во "Туркменистан"|date=1976}}</ref>

Although the name literally means "city of love" or "city of devotion" in modern Persian, the name might be modified through [[folk etymology]]. Turkmen historian Ovez Gundogdiyev believes that the name goes back to the [[Parthian Empire|Parthian]] era, 3rd century BC, deriving from the name of the founder of the [[Parthian Empire]], [[Arsaces I of Parthia]], in [[Persian language|Persian]] Ashk-Abad (the city of ''Ashk''/[[Arsaces]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://turkmeniya.tripod.com/id27.html |title=How Old is Ashgabat? |publisher=Turkmeniya.tripod.com |access-date=2013-11-24}}</ref>

==Geography==
Ashgabat is in near proximity, approximately 50&nbsp;km (30&nbsp;mi), to the Iranian border.<ref name=nasa>{{cite web|url=https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/38300/ashgabat-turkmenistan|title=Ashgabat, Turkmenistan|date=September 11, 2001|publisher=NASA}}</ref> It occupies a highly seismically active oasis plain bounded on the south by the foothills of the [[Kopet Dag]] mountains ({{langx|tk|Köpetdag}}) and on the north by the [[Karakum Desert]]. It is surrounded by, but not part of, [[Ahal Region|Ahal Province]] ({{langx|tk|Ahal welaýaty}}). The highest point in the city is the {{convert|401|m}} high sandhill upon which the Yyldyz Hotel was built, but most of the city lies between {{convert|200.|and|255|m}} of elevation. The [[Karakum Canal]] runs through the city.<ref name=goranmak>{{cite map|title=Ashgabat: Map of City Centre|publisher=Enterprise No. 5 of the Ministry of Defense|place=Ashgabat|date=2015}}</ref><ref name=genshtab>{{cite map |title = Ашхабад|trans-title = Ashkhabad|year = 1982|scale = 1:25,000|series = Генеральный штаб|publisher = Генеральный штаб СССР|sections = J-40-69,70,81,82|edition = 1969|language = ru}}</ref><ref name=encyclopedia />

Like the rest of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat's soil is primarily sediment that accumulated on the bottom of the [[Paratethys Ocean]]. The Kopet Dag mountains emerged toward the end of the [[Cretaceous Period]].<ref name=turkmenistan2>{{cite book|title=Туркменистан|language=ru|date=1948|publisher=Молодая гвардия|place=Moscow|series=Наша Родина|editor-last=Михайлова|editor-first=Н.Н.|chapter=Туркменистан в образах литературы}}</ref>

===Urban layout===
====1881 to 1929====
Prior to 1881 any buildings other than [[yurt]]s were made solely from [[adobe]] and were limited to one story in height due to the seismic risk.<ref name=ria /> As of 1900 only one building in the city was two stories tall, the municipal museum.<ref name=muradov3>{{cite news|url= https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/54091/istoriya-ashhabada-na-zare-dvadcatogo-veka |title=  История Ашхабада: на заре двадцатого века|first=Ruslan|last=Muradov |date=6 May 2021 |language=ru |publisher=«Туркменистан: золотой век»}}</ref> City planning began following the Russian conquest, with "very simple planning schemes". The basic layout of downtown streets "has been preserved to this day and defined the unique character of the city structure combining linear and radial types of layout of blocks". The Russian writer [[Vasily Yan]], who lived in Askhabad from 1901 to 1904, described the city as "a little tidy town consisting of numerous clay houses, surrounded by fruit gardens with straight streets, planted with slim cottonwood, chestnut, and white acacia planned by the hand of military engineers".<ref name=guide /> Another description noted,
: The fortress was the center of the bureaucratic part of the city. Here stood especially sturdy thick-walled houses, with strong window grates and corner buttresses. Earthquakes were less frightening in such houses, and behind the thick walls even in the hottest months some measure of indoor coolness was retained. Each house had a garden around it, on maintenance of which residents spared neither expenditures nor water...Nearer the rail station lived the railroad workers and craftsmen. Here the houses were shorter and more densely spaced, gardens smaller, and dust on the streets greater...
: Gradually a third center of Ashkhabad started to emerge, of the merchants. Roughly equidistant from the rail station and the fortress was laid out a sad marketplace, becoming not only a center of stores and stalls, but a center of gravity for merchants' residence.<ref name=turkmenistan />

====1930 to 1948====
In 1930, asphalt was used for the first time to pave Ashgabat's streets.<ref name=muradov4>{{cite news|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/54304/istoriya-ashhabada-vremya-bolshih-peremen |title =История Ашхабада: время больших перемен  |date=13 May 2021|first=Ruslan|last=Muradov |language=ru |publisher=«Туркменистан: золотой век»}}</ref> The water supply was increased by piping water from springs in neighboring Gämi and Bagyr.<ref name=muradov4 />

The first master plan for Ashgabat, developed between 1935 and 1937 at the Moscow Institute of Geodesy, Aerial Imagery, and Cartography, envisioned expansion to the west, including irrigation and greening of the Bikrova canyon (today Bekrewe).<ref name=encyclopedia>{{cite book|title=Туркменская Советская Социалистическая Республика: Энциклопедический справочник|date=1984|publisher=Издательство Чувашского обкома КПСС|place=Ashkhabad|language = ru}}</ref> The city architect's office was created in 1936 but was unable to implement the new master plan "as it implied significant demolition of the existing buildings".<ref name=quake>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=17263|title=Ашхабадская трагедия: 70 лет спустя|last=Komarov|first=Vladimir|date=October 6, 2018|work=Туркменистан: золотой век|language=ru}}</ref> A description of Ashgabat published in 1948 just before the earthquake noted, "In Ashgabat there are nearly no tall buildings, thus every two-story building is visible from above...", i.e., from the foothills. The tallest structures were the clock tower of the textile mill, the "round smokestack of the glass factory", two "exceptionally thin minarets" of the "former mosque", and "two splendid towers over the long building of the main city hotel".<ref name=turkmenistan />

====Impact of the 1948 earthquake====
[[File:Soviet Union stamp 1950 № 1493.jpg|thumb|Textile factory in Ashgabat depicted on a 1950 stamp]]
During the 1948 earthquake, since the bulk of Ashgabat at that time was built of either [[adobe]] or fired [[brick]], all but a very few buildings collapsed or were damaged beyond repair (the reinforced concrete grain elevator, [[St. Alexander Nevsky Church, Ashgabat|Church of St. Alexander Nevsky]], and [[Kärz Bank]] were among the structures that survived).<ref name=vosp>{{cite web|url=https://www.partner-inform.de/memoirs/detail/jetapy-zhiznennogo-puti-chast-6-g/4/620?lang=ru|title=ЭТАПЫ ЖИЗНЕННОГО ПУТИ, Часть 6. ТУРКМЕНИЯ|first=Михаил|last=Брегман|language=ru|publisher="Partner" MedienHaus GmbH & Co. KG}}</ref><ref name=karyyev>{{cite web|url=http://infoabad.com/vs-o-turkmenistane/-ashhabadskaja-katastrofa-glava-iz-knigi-b-karyeva-vot-prishlo-zemletrjasenie.html|title="Ашхабадская катастрофа". Глава из книги Б.Каррыева "Вот пришло землетрясение"|date=September 6, 2015|language=ru|publisher=Infoabad|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726231339/http://infoabad.com/vs-o-turkmenistane/-ashhabadskaja-katastrofa-glava-iz-knigi-b-karyeva-vot-prishlo-zemletrjasenie.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> According to Turkmenistan's official news agency,
: Nearly all one-story residential buildings in the city made of mud brick were destroyed, 95 percent of all one-story buildings made of fired brick, and the remaining structures were damaged beyond repair. The number of inhabitable buildings was in single digits, and at that, only after capital renovation.<ref name=quake />

A new general plan was hastily developed by July 1949. The city was divided into four zones: central, northern, eastern, and southwestern. Reconstruction of the city began in that year.<ref name=encyclopedia /><ref name=quake /> Thus from the early 1950s through 1991 Ashgabat's skyline was dominated by [[Brutalist architecture|the Brutalist Style]] favored by post-Stalin Soviet architects.<ref name=masterplan>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=5241|title=Столица, устремленная в будущее|first=Vladimir|last=Komarov|date=November 9, 2013|language=ru|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref> The city's central avenue, [[Magtymguly Avenue|Magtymguly]] (former Kuropatkin, Freedom, and Stalin Avenue), featured "monotonous and primarily two-story construction of administrative and residential buildings". This reconstruction "preserved the existing network of city streets as it was economically unjustified to redesign them".<ref name=quake /> The city was described as "...a Communist-era backwater, rebuilt into a typically drab provincial Soviet city..."<ref name=mt>{{cite web|url=https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2011/05/19/turkmen-leader-opens-gold-palace-a7060|title=Turkmen Leader Opens Gold Palace|date=May 19, 2011|publisher=Moscow Times}}</ref> The plan was updated in 1959.<ref name=bse>{{cite encyclopedia|url=https://bse.slovaronline.com/2178-ASHHABAD |title=Большая советская энциклопедия |edition=1969-1978гг. – Издание III|place=Moscow |language=Russian |article=АШХАБАД}} (online edition)</ref>

Among the buildings erected in the 1950s and 1960s were the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Turkmenistan Communist Party, the Council of Ministers Building, the [[Mollanepes Academic Drama Theater]], the former [[Ashkhabad Hotel]] (now renamed Paytagt), the Academy of Sciences complex, and the downtown library building. On then-Karl Marx Square stood a monument to the Soviet "fighters for victory of Soviet power in Turkmenistan".<ref name=encyclopedia />

====The 1960s master plan====
The Turkmen State Project Institute undertook a feasibility study in the mid-1960s to forecast Ashgabat's development to the year 2000, and on that basis to develop a new master plan. Up until then the city had largely expanded to the east, but now the plan called for development to the south and west. This plan was used for about 20 years, and led to construction of the city's first four-story apartment buildings in the Howdan ({{langx|ru|Гаудан}}) microdistricts, formerly the site of the Ashgabat-South aerodrome, as well as annexation of three [[Kolkhoz|collective farms]] in the near suburbs and their conversion into residential neighborhoods, one of which, Leningrad kolkhoz, to this day is referred to informally by its former name.<ref name=quake /><ref name=osmwiki>{{cite web|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/Ashgabat#Demolished_neighborhoods|title=Ashgabat|publisher=OpenStreetMap}}</ref> The plan was reworked in 1974, and this resulted in relocation of several industrial plants away from the city center, and thus creation of the industrial zones to the northwest, south, southeast, and northeast.<ref name=encyclopedia />

Between 1961 and 1987 the city architect was Abdulla Ahmedov, who introduced Soviet [[modernism]] to Ashgabat.<ref name=muradov5>{{cite news|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/54624/istoriya-ashhabada-epoha-modernizma | title=История Ашхабада: эпоха модернизма | date=24 May 2021 |language=ru |first=Ruslan |last=Muradov |publisher=«Туркменистан: золотой век»}}</ref> Ahmedov's greatest architectural accomplishment during this period is considered the Ashgabat Hotel (today renamed Paytagt Hotel), built between 1964 and 1970, "a harmonious synthesis of architecture and monumental art".<ref name=muradov5 />

===Growth===
In 1948 Ashgabat was described before the earthquake as lying "on a sloping plain of the Kopet-Dag foothills, stretching seven kilometers from west to east and five kilometers from the railroad right-of-way to the south, in the direction of the mountains".<ref name=turkmenistan>{{cite book|title=Туркменистан|language=ru|first=П.|last=Скосырев|date=1948|publisher=Молодая гвардия|place=Moscow|series=Наша Родина|editor-last=Михайлова|editor-first=Н.Н.|chapter=Ашхабад--столица Советского Туркменистана}}</ref> Through the mid-1970s, Ashgabat was a compact city, as shown by the 1974 Soviet military's General Staff map J-40-081.<ref name=j40081>{{cite map|title=Ашхабад J-40-081|cartography=USSR Ministry of Defense|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/File:J-40-081-Ashgabat-excerpt.jpg|language=ru}}</ref> The village of Köşi, collective farm "Leningrad", airport, and suburbs to the north were outside the city limits.

Beginning in the 1970s, Ashgabat's boundaries shifted outward, with the aforementioned municipalities annexed, the aerodrome at Howdan redeveloped, and creation of the Parahat ({{langx|ru|Mir}}) neighborhoods to the south and industrial parks to the east. In 2013, Ashgabat annexed a portion of the then-Ruhabat district of Ahal Province as well as the city of Abadan (previously named Büzmeýin, and renamed that as a neighborhood) plus all land and villages in between. The southern boundary of Ashgabat was extended southward to the foothills of the Kopet Dag mountains. Overall, Ashgabat's land area rose by 37,654 hectares. The following municipalities were abolished due to their incorporation into the city of Ashgabat: city of Abadan, towns of Jülge and Ruhabat, villages of Gökje, Gypjak, Birleşik, Magaryf, Herrikgala, Ýalkym, Gurtly, Hellewler, Ylmy-Tejribe bazasy, Ýasmansalyk, Köne Gurtly, Gulantäzekli, Serdar ýoly, Gaňtar, Gyzyljagala, Inerçýage, Tarhan, Topurly, and Ussagulla.<ref name=abadan2013>{{cite map|title=Схема территорий, предназначенных для включения в пределы города Aшхабада|language=ru|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/File:2013May27_new_map_of_Ashgabat_and_Akhal_2.jpg|date=May 27, 2013}}</ref><ref name=annex2013a>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmeninform.com/ru/news/20130528/07457.html|title=Изменения в административной карте столицы Туркменистана и ее прилегающих территорий|date=May 28, 2013|language=ru|work= Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref><ref name=annex2013b>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmeninform.com/ru/news/20130528/07457.html|title=Изменения в административной карте столицы Туркменистана и ее прилегающих территорий|date=May 28, 2013|language=ru|publisher=Turkmeninform}}</ref> A further expansion occurred January 5, 2018, when additional land to the north was annexed, incorporating the Gurtly Reservoir and two greenfield residential construction projects, known today as Täze Zaman. This statute also established the current four boroughs of Ashgabat.<ref name=annex2015>{{cite map|title=Схема территорий этрапов города Ашхабада|date=January 5, 2018|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/File:2018_01_06_ashgabat_etrapy_separation_24784.jpg|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=mejlis1>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=15374|title=Меджлис Туркменистана принял Постановление о вопросах административно-территориального деления города Ашхабада|language=ru|date=January 5, 2018|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref>

==Climate==
{{climate chart
| Ashgabat
|- 0.4|  8.6| 20
| 1.0| 11.2| 24
| 5.5| 16.5| 41
|11.6| 24.1| 32
|16.6| 30.1| 21
|21.5| 36.0|  6
|23.8| 38.3|  3
|21.7| 37.2|  2
|16.1| 31.7|  3
|10.1| 24.3| 10
| 5.2| 16.8| 19
| 1.2| 10.4| 20
|float=right
|clear=both
|source= ''pogoda.ru.net''<ref name = Pogoda >
{{cite web
|url = http://pogoda.ru.net/climate/38880.htm
|title = Weather and Climate-The Climate of Ashgabat
|publisher = Weather and Climate
|language = ru
|access-date=August 21, 2012
}}</ref>
}}The [[Kopet Dag]] mountain range is about {{convert|25|km}} to the south, and Ashgabat's northern boundary touches the Kara-Kum desert. Because of this Ashgabat has a [[cold desert climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]]: ''BWk'', bordering on ''BWh'') with [[mediterranean climate|mediterranean]] influences. It features very hot, dry summers and cool, short, somewhat moist, winters. The average high temperature in July is {{convert|38.3|°C|1}}. Nighttimes in the summer are warm, with an average minimum temperature in July of {{convert|23.8|°C|0}}. The average January high temperature is {{convert|8.6|C|F|1}}, and the average low temperature is {{convert|-0.4|C|F|1}}. The highest temperature ever recorded in Ashgabat is {{convert|47.2|°C|0}}, recorded in June 2015.<ref name="Pogoda" /> A low temperature of {{convert|-24.1|°C|0}} was recorded in January 1969.<ref name="Pogoda" /> Snow is infrequent in the area. Annual precipitation is only {{convert|201|mm|in|2}}; March and April are the wettest months, and June to September are the driest months. In May 2022, {{convert|338|mm|in|2}}, 1,352% of the monthly normal, was reported.<ref>Weekly Weather and Crop Bulletin, June 1, 2022, page 22</ref>

{{Weather box
|location = Ashgabat (1991–2020, extremes 1893–present)
|metric first = Yes
|single line = Yes
|Jan record high C = 27.8
|Feb record high C = 32.6
|Mar record high C = 38.6
|Apr record high C = 39.6
|May record high C = 45.6
|Jun record high C = 47.2
|Jul record high C = 46.8
|Aug record high C = 45.7
|Sep record high C = 45.4
|Oct record high C = 40.1
|Nov record high C = 35.0
|Dec record high C = 33.1
|Jan high C = 9.0
|Feb high C = 11.1
|Mar high C = 17.0
|Apr high C = 23.9
|May high C = 30.5
|Jun high C = 36.2
|Jul high C = 38.4
|Aug high C = 37.2
|Sep high C = 31.8
|Oct high C = 24.4
|Nov high C = 15.7
|Dec high C = 9.8
|Jan mean C = 3.9
|Feb mean C = 5.7
|Mar mean C = 11.1
|Apr mean C = 17.6
|May mean C = 24.1
|Jun mean C = 29.6
|Jul mean C = 31.7
|Aug mean C = 30.0
|Sep mean C = 24.3
|Oct mean C = 17.1
|Nov mean C = 9.7
|Dec mean C = 5.0
|Jan low C = -0.1
|Feb low C = 1.3
|Mar low C = 6.0
|Apr low C = 11.8
|May low C = 17.5
|Jun low C = 22.3
|Jul low C = 24.5
|Aug low C = 22.4
|Sep low C = 17.1
|Oct low C = 10.8
|Nov low C = 5.0
|Dec low C = 1.1
|year low C = 
|Jan record low C = -24.1
|Feb record low C = −20.8
|Mar record low C = −13.3
|Apr record low C = -0.8
|May record low C = 1.3
|Jun record low C = 9.2
|Jul record low C = 13.8
|Aug record low C = 9.5
|Sep record low C = 2.0
|Oct record low C = -5.0
|Nov record low C = −13.1
|Dec record low C = −18.1
|precipitation colour = green 
|Jan precipitation mm = 21
|Feb precipitation mm = 32
|Mar precipitation mm = 39
|Apr precipitation mm = 28
|May precipitation mm = 21
|Jun precipitation mm = 8
|Jul precipitation mm = 3
|Aug precipitation mm = 2
|Sep precipitation mm = 3
|Oct precipitation mm = 12
|Nov precipitation mm = 22
|Dec precipitation mm = 17
|year precipitation mm = 221
|Jan humidity = 78
|Feb humidity = 72
|Mar humidity = 66
|Apr humidity = 58
|May humidity = 47
|Jun humidity = 35
|Jul humidity = 34
|Aug humidity = 34
|Sep humidity = 40
|Oct humidity = 54
|Nov humidity = 68
|Dec humidity = 77
|year humidity = 55
|Jan rain days = 9
|Feb rain days = 9
|Mar rain days = 13
|Apr rain days = 12
|May rain days = 10
|Jun rain days = 5
|Jul rain days = 3
|Aug rain days = 2
|Sep rain days = 3
|Oct rain days = 6
|Nov rain days = 8
|Dec rain days = 10
|year rain days = 90
|Jan snow days = 5
|Feb snow days = 5
|Mar snow days = 1
|Apr snow days = 0.03
|May snow days = 0
|Jun snow days = 0
|Jul snow days = 0
|Aug snow days = 0
|Sep snow days = 0
|Oct snow days = 0.1
|Nov snow days = 1
|Dec snow days = 3
|year snow days = 15
|Jan sun = 112.7
|Feb sun = 119.4
|Mar sun = 146.2
|Apr sun = 194.4
|May sun = 275.1
|Jun sun = 335.5
|Jul sun = 353.8
|Aug sun = 348.1
|Sep sun = 289.2
|Oct sun = 216.8
|Nov sun = 157.2
|Dec sun = 104.4
|year sun = 2652.8
|Jand sun = 3.6
|Febd sun = 4.2
|Mard sun = 4.7
|Aprd sun = 6.5
|Mayd sun = 8.9
|Jund sun = 11.2
|Juld sun = 11.4
|Augd sun = 11.2
|Sepd sun = 9.6
|Octd sun = 7.0
|Novd sun = 5.2
|Decd sun = 3.4
|yeard sun = 7.3
|source 1 = Pogoda.ru.net<ref name=pogoda>{{cite web
| url = http://www.pogodaiklimat.ru/climate/38880.htm
|script-title=ru:Погода и Климат 
| publisher = Pogodaiklimat.ru
| language = ru
| access-date = 22 November 2021}}</ref> 
|source 2 = NOAA (Sunshine hours 1961–1990),<ref name=NOAA >{{cite web
| url = ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/TABLES/REG_II/TX/38880.TXT
| title = Ashgabat Climate Normals 1961–1990
| publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
| access-date = 22 November 2021}}</ref> [[Deutscher Wetterdienst]] (daily sun 1961-1990)<ref>
{{cite web
| url = http://www.dwd.de/DWD/klima/beratung/ak/ak_388800_kt.pdf
| title = Klimatafel von Aschgabat (Flughafen) / Turkmenistan
| publisher = Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure
| access-date = September 17, 2016}}
</ref>}}

==History==
Ashgabat grew on the ruins of the [[Silk Road]] city of '''Konjikala''', first mentioned as a wine-producing village in the 1st-2nd century BC and leveled by an earthquake in the 1st century BC. Konjikala was rebuilt because of its advantageous location on the Silk Road and it flourished until its destruction by Mongols in the 13th century. After that it survived as a small village until Russians took over in the 19th century.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.geographicbureau.com/trips/central_asia/turkmenistan/info/brief_description_of_the_main_s.jdx|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029043151/http://www.geographicbureau.com/trips/central_asia/turkmenistan/info/brief_description_of_the_main_s.jdx|url-status=dead|title=Konjikala|archivedate=October 29, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|first=MaryLee|last=Knowlton|title=Turkmenistan|url=https://archive.org/details/turkmenistan00know|url-access=registration|year=2006|publisher=Marshall Cavendish|isbn=978-0-7614-2014-9|page=[https://archive.org/details/turkmenistan00know/page/40 40]}}</ref>

The near suburb of Köşi, until 2013 a separate village but in that year annexed by Ashgabat, may have been site of a [[Parthia]]n fortress constructed to protect the capital city, [[Nisa, Turkmenistan|Nisa]], based on discoveries of pottery and other artifacts in the 1970s and as recently as 2020. Other artifacts indicating settlement during the [[Parthia]]n period were reportedly discovered during laying of telephone cables on the site of the [[Russian Bazaar, Ashgabat|Gülistan (Russian) Bazaar]] in downtown Ashgabat.<ref name=parthia>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=21643|title=На территории Ашхабада обнаружена керамика парфянской эпохи|language=ru|date=11 September 2020|work=Туркменистан: золотой век|access-date=September 17, 2020|archive-date=November 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127084151/https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=21643|url-status=dead}}</ref>

According to Muradov, the first mention of the settlement in modern times is found in [[Khiva]] chronicles of 1811.<ref name=muradov1>{{cite news |url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/53739/istoriya-ashhabada-chto-bylo-do-osnovaniya |title=История Ашхабада: что было до основания? |date=23 April 2021 |language=ru |first=Ruslan |last=Muradov |publisher=«Туркменистан: золотой век»}}</ref>

British Lieutenant Colonel H.C. Stuart reported in 1881 that the Ahal branch of the [[Teke (Turkmen tribe)|Teke tribe]] of the [[Turkmens|Turkmen]] ethnic group arrived in the area around 1830 and established several semi-nomadic villages (''auls'') between what are now the city of [[Gyzylarbat]] and village of [[Gäwers, Turkmenistan|Gäwers]], inclusive. One of these villages was named Askhabad.<ref name=stuart>{{cite book|title=The Country of the Turkomans|date=1977|publisher=Oguz Press and the Royal Geographical Society|place=London|isbn=0-905820-01-0}}, Chapter 11, Stuart, Lt. Col. H.C., ''The Country of the Tekke Turkomans, and the Tejend and Murghab Rivers'', lecture delivered in 1881.</ref> The first Russian reference to Ashgabat dates to 1850, in a document kept in the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs archives listing 43 Ahal fortresses, "Ishkhabad" among them.<ref name=guide>{{cite book|title=Guide-Book to Ashgabat|date=2015|publisher=Turkmen State Publishing Service|place=Ashgabat|editor1-first=Viktor|editor1-last=Khramov}}</ref> It was described as a "typical Turkmen ''aul''".<ref name=turkmenistan />

It was formally part of [[Persia]] but ''de facto'' autonomous under Turkoman tribal control until Russian forces defeated the Teke army at the [[Battle of Geok Tepe]] in January 1881. Persia ceded Askhabad to the [[Russian Empire]] in September 1881 under the terms of the [[Akhal Treaty]].

===Russian Empire===
The city was officially founded January 18, 1881, as a fortified garrison and was named after the Turkmen village on that site.<ref name=turkmenistan /><ref name="Pospelov">Pospelov, pp.&nbsp;29–30</ref><ref name=encyclopedia /><ref name=muradov2>{{cite news|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/53915/istoriya-ashhabada-s-chego-vsyo-nachinalos |title=История Ашхабада: с чего всё начиналось |date=29 April 2021 |language=ru |first=Ruslan |last=Muradov |publisher=«Туркменистан: золотой век»}}</ref> Russian military engineers platted the garrison settlement "on the western edge of the ''aul'' (village) of Askhabad on the Gaudan (Howdan) road leading to Persia. The fortress stood on a hill 12 meters high, on which was constructed a citadel-redoubt, and below [it], the residential area, surrounded by walls and a moat."<ref name=encyclopedia /> Sixty-seven Turkmen families were compensated for the land confiscated from them for this construction.<ref name=muradov2 />

Russia developed the area due to its proximity to the border of British-influenced Persia. In 1882 a wagon road was built through the mountains to [[Quchan]], [[Iran]], which led to increased trade as well as settlement of Persian and Armenian merchants in Askhabad.<ref name=muradov2 /> The [[Trans-Caspian railway]] reached Askhabad in 1885. The population grew from 2,500 in 1881 to 10,000 in 1886 and 19,428 (of whom one third were Persian) by 1897.<ref name=muradov2 /><ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite EB1911|wstitle=Askabad|volume=2|page=762}}</ref> The Transcaspian Public Library was established in 1885, boys and girls high schools were founded in 1886, and the Kuropatkin School of Horticulture and Viticulture appeared in 1890. The first telephone station was installed in 1900.<ref name=muradov2 />

The city was regarded as a pleasant municipality with European-style buildings, shops, and hotels. Several streets were named after Russian military figures, reflecting its status as a garrison town, including the main square, named in honor of General [[Mikhail Skobelev]], commander of Russian forces during the 1880–1881 Trans-Caspian military campaign. These included as well the western boundary avenue, named in honor of General Nikolai Grodekov, and the city's central avenue, renamed in the 1890s to honor General and Trans-Caspian Governor-General [[Aleksey Kuropatkin]], both of whom had served in the Trans-Caspian campaign under Skobolev's command.<ref name=map2>{{cite map |title = План города Асхабада|trans-title = Plan goroda Askhabada|year = c. 1890|scale = "100 sazhen to one English inch" (1:8,400)|language = ru}}</ref>

In 1908, the first [[Bahá'í House of Worship]] was built in Askhabad. It was badly damaged in the 1948 earthquake and finally demolished in 1963.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple-ashkabad |title=Baha'i House of Worship in Ashgabat |publisher=Bahai.us |access-date=2010-06-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808220600/http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple-ashkabad |archive-date=August 8, 2007 }}</ref><ref name=country>{{cite book|title=The Country of the Turkomans: An anthology of exploration from the Royal Geographic Society|publisher=Oguz Press and the Royal Geographic Society|year=1977|isbn=0-905820-01-0}}</ref> The community of the [[Bahá'í Faith in Turkmenistan]] was largely based in Askhabad.

By 1915 Askhabad featured branches of the Russian State Bank, Persian Accounting Loan Bank, Russian-Asian Bank, [[Société Générale]], and Askhabat Mutual Credit Union.<ref name=guide />

===Soviet period===
[[Soviet Union|Soviet]] rule was established in Ashgabat in December 1917. However, in July 1918, a coalition of [[Menshevik]]s, [[Social Revolutionaries]], and [[Tsarism|Tsarist]] former officers of the [[Imperial Russian Army]] revolted against the [[Bolshevik]] rule emanating from Tashkent and established the [[Transcaspian Government|Ashkhabad Executive Committee]]. After receiving some support (but even more promises) from General [[Wilfrid Malleson|Malleson]], the British withdrew in April 1919 and the [[Tashkent Soviet]] resumed control of the city.

In 1919, the city was renamed '''Poltoratsk''' ({{langx|ru|Полторацк}}), after [[Pavel Poltoratskiy]], the Chairman of the Soviet of National Economy of the [[Turkestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic]].<ref name="Pospelov" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://bse.sci-lib.com/article085143.html|title=Ашхабад|publisher=Bse.sci-lib.com|date=May 28, 2009|access-date=February 26, 2015}}</ref> When the [[Turkmen SSR]] was established in 1924, Poltoratsk became its capital. The original name but in the form of "A'''sh'''khabad" rather than "A'''s'''khabad" was restored in 1927.<ref name="Pospelov" /> In keeping with standard Soviet practice, Imperial Russian street names were changed to honor prominent Communists, Russians, or socialist ideals. For example, Skobolev Square became [[Karl Marx]] Square, Grodekov Street became [[Alexander Ostrovsky|Ostrovskiy]] Street, and Kuropatkin Avenue became Freedom Avenue (and from 1953 to 1961, following [[Joseph Stalin]]'s death, Stalin Avenue).<ref name=osm /><ref name=gaz /> In 1927 a statue of [[Vladimir Lenin]] designed by A.A. Karelin and Ye.R. Tripolskaya was erected.<ref name=encyclopedia />

During [[World War II]] Ashgabat became a refuge for both institutions, including Moscow State University and the Kiev film studio, and individuals. Roughly 8,000 refugees were quartered in private homes during the war.<ref name=muradov4 /> Among the outsiders who escaped to Ashgabat during the war were [[Andrei Sakharov]] and author [[Yury Olesha]]. In 1944 Ukrainian motion picture director [[Mark Donskoy]] filmed ''[[Rainbow (1944 film)|Rainbow]]'' ({{langx|uk|Веселка}}, {{langx|ru|Радуга}}) in Ashgabat, which was nominated for an [[Academy Award]] as best foreign film.<ref name=muradov4 />

From this period onward, the city experienced rapid growth and industrialisation, although severely disrupted by a [[1948 Ashgabat earthquake|major earthquake]] on October 6, 1948. An estimated 7.3 on the [[Surface magnitude scale]], the earthquake killed 110–176,000<ref name="NGDC">{{cite web | url=https://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/hazel/view/hazards/earthquake/event-more-info/3891|title=Significant Earthquake Information|last=National Geophysical Data Center / World Data Service (NGDC/WDS): NCEI/WDS Global Significant Earthquake Database. NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information|year=1972 |publisher=NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information|doi=10.7289/V5TD9V7K}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/world/most_destructive.php |title=US Geological Survey |publisher=Earthquake.usgs.gov |access-date=2010-06-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090901233953/http://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/world/most_destructive.php |archive-date=September 1, 2009  }}</ref><ref>{{cite encyclopedia|author=Britannica Concise Encyclopedia |url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/176199/earthquake |title=Britannica Online |encyclopedia=Britannica.com |access-date=2010-06-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/_eng/2007/10/06/today_the_people_of_turkmenistan_mourn_for_those_perished_in_the_1948_ashgabat_earthquake.html |title=Today the People of Turkmenistan Mourn for Those Perished in the 1948 Ashgabat Earthquake |publisher=Golden Age State News Agency |date=2007-10-06 |access-date=2010-06-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406122236/http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/_eng/2007/10/06/today_the_people_of_turkmenistan_mourn_for_those_perished_in_the_1948_ashgabat_earthquake.html |archive-date=April 6, 2009  }}</ref> (two-thirds of the population of the city), although the official number announced by Soviet news was only 40,000.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/russian/life/newsid_3169000/3169472.stm |title=Би-би-си &#124; Люди и нравы &#124; Горькая память Ашхабада |work=BBC News |access-date=2013-11-24 |first=Владимир |last=Ардаев |date=2003-10-06|language=ru}}</ref> The earthquake was recorded as one of the deadliest natural disasters in Soviet history.

===Independence===
[[File:Apartment blocks Ashgabat.jpg|thumb|Apartment blocks]]
In July 2003, street names in Ashgabat were replaced by serial numbers except for nine major highways, some named after [[Saparmurat Niyazov]], his father, and his mother. The Presidential Palace Square was designated 2000 to symbolize the beginning of the 21st century. The rest of the streets were assigned larger or smaller four-digit numerical names. Following Niyazov's death in 2006, Soviet-era street names were restored, though in the years since, many of them have been replaced with names honoring Turkmen scholars, poets, military heroes, and figures from art and culture, as well as celebrating the nation's independence. For example, Karl Marx Square became Garaşsyzlyk (Independence) Square, Ostrovskiy Street became Abba Annaýew (in honor of President [[Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov]]'s great-uncle), and Freedom Avenue became [[Magtymguly]].<ref name=osm>{{cite web | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t5DxV7cXgQ&list=PLQNy8KsDknCr92fIXYcOKL42U35wRAV9Y&index=3 | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/_t5DxV7cXgQ| archive-date=2021-12-11 | url-status=live| title=State of the Map keynote, State of the Map 2016| website=[[YouTube]]|date=October 4, 2016}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name=gaz>{{cite web |url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/Gazetteer_of_Ashgabat_Street_Names |title=Gazetteer of Ashgabat Street Names |website=OpenStreetMap Wiki}}</ref><ref name=sofitel>{{cite map |author = Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan Enterprise No. 5|title = Ashgabat|year = 2011|publisher = [[Sofitel]] |cartography = Ministry of Defense |location = Ashgabat|language = en }}</ref><ref name=numbers>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/node/13918|title=АШХАБАД ПЕРЕХОДИТ НА ЦИФРОВУЮ СИСТЕМУ ОБОЗНАЧЕНИЯ УЛИЦ|date=May 6, 2002|language=ru|publisher=Turkmenistan.ru}}</ref>

In 2013, the city was included in the ''[[Guinness Book of Records]]'' as possessing the world's highest concentration of white [[marble]] buildings.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/may/26/turkmenistan-world-record-white-marble-buildings |title=Turkmenistan enters record books for having the most white marble buildings &#124; World news |work=theguardian.com |access-date=2013-11-24 |location=London |date=2013-05-26}}</ref>
[[File:10 Ýyl Abadanchylyk Avenue2.jpg|thumb|Southern part of Ashgabat]]
Ashgabat's "11th Line" project was dedicated on June 29, 2012, including 17 high-rise apartment buildings along 10 ýyl Abadançylyk şaýoly, two secondary schools, two kindergartens, a fire station, and a health clinic.<ref name=line11>{{cite news|publisher=Neytral'nyy Turkmenistan|language=ru|title=Этапы развития Туркменской столицы|date=12 November 2020}}</ref> The "12th Line" project was completed October 1, 2014, consisting of a straightening and widening of Atamyrat Nyýazow şaýoly plus construction of 13 high-rise apartment buildings, two secondary schools, two kindergartens, a new headquarters building for the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, the Telekeçi shopping center, and the Development Bank. On that same date, the new Cabinet of Ministers building was also opened.<ref name=Line12>{{cite news|publisher=Neytral'nyy Turkmenistan|language=ru|title=Этапы развития Туркменской столицы|date=13 November 2020}}</ref>

In preparation for the 2017 [[Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games]], the city spent $5&nbsp;billion on residential construction. December 4, 2014, the president issued a decree calling for construction of 60 9-story apartment buildings in the Parahat-7 microdistrict, a greenfield project in the southeast quadrant of the city.<ref name=parahat7>{{cite web|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx&article641&cat11|title=С расширенного заседания Кабинета Министров Туркменистана|date=January 9, 2015|language=ru|publisher=Государственное информационное агентство Туркменистана (TDH) – Туркменистан сегодня}}</ref> On November 10, 2015, the "13th Line" was dedicated, a complete reconstruction of buildings along Oguzhan köçesi west of Garaşsyzlyk şaýoly.<ref name="line13">{{cite web|url=http://infoabad.com/novosti-turkmenistana/v-ramkah-13-i-ocheredi-zastroiki-ashhabada-vedeno-v-stroi-bole-30-obektov.html|title=В рамках 13-й очереди застройки Ашхабада введено в строй более 30 объектов|publisher=Infoabad|language=ru|date=November 11, 2015|access-date=July 28, 2020|archive-date=July 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728215724/http://infoabad.com/novosti-turkmenistana/v-ramkah-13-i-ocheredi-zastroiki-ashhabada-vedeno-v-stroi-bole-30-obektov.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Projects included demolition and redevelopment of the Leningrad kolkhoz neighborhood as the "14th Line", and the Gazha and Vosmushka neighborhoods as the "15th Line".<ref name=osm /><ref name=hrw3>{{cite web|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2017/09/04/turkmenistan-homeowners-evicted-denied-compensation|title=Turkmenistan: Homeowners Evicted, Denied Compensation|publisher=Human Rights Watch|date=September 4, 2017}}</ref><ref name=sng1>{{cite web|url=https://sng.today/ashkhabad/4810-otkryvaetsya-15-ochered-zastroyki-ashhabada.html|title=Открывается 15 очередь застройки Ашхабада|date=October 23, 2017|language=ru|publisher=SNG.TODAY}}</ref><ref name=stroy>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/4308|title=В 15-ую очередь застройки Ашхабада войдет крупный комплекс 2-этажных коттеджей, десятки жилых домов|date=February 5, 2015|language=ru|publisher=Turkmenportal}}</ref><ref name=line14>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/8944|title=Состоялось торжественное открытие зданий 14 очереди строительства Ашхабада|date=October 20, 2016|language=ru|publisher=Turkmenportal}}</ref>
[[File:Ashgabat Olympic Complex.jpg|thumb|Olympic Facilities for the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games]]
Subsequent to conclusion of the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, the "16th Line" project, a redevelopment of the Köşi neighborhood and extension of Magtymguly Avenue to the west, was begun in 2018.<ref name="sixteen1">{{cite web|url=https://sng.today/ashkhabad/7069-v-ashhabade-nachato-stroitelstvo-novogo-zhilogo-mikrorayona.html|title=В Ашхабаде начато строительство нового жилого микрорайона|language=ru|date=4 May 2018|publisher=SNG.TODAY}}</ref><ref name="sixteen2">{{cite web|url=https://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=16216|title=Началось возведение нового жилого комплекса вдоль проспекта Махтумкули|date=3 May 2018|first=Vladimir|last=Komarov|language=ru|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref> The "16th Line" was dedicated on November 10, 2020; it includes 16 high-rise apartment buildings, the Gül zemin shopping center, and a monument to the [[Central Asian Shepherd Dog|Alabay sheepdog]].<ref name="sixteen3">{{cite news|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=22022|title=Президент Туркменистана открывает комплекс столичных новостроек|date=10 November 2020|publisher="Туркменистан: золотой век"|language=ru}}</ref> In addition, the Gurtly and Choganly housing complexes, both greenfield projects, were constructed.<ref name="parahat">{{cite web|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx&article6243&cat40|title=В новых жилых массивах туркменской столицы готовятся к сдаче дома, объекты социальной и транспортной инфраструктуры|date=April 16, 2017|language=ru|publisher=Государственное информационное агентство Туркменистана (TDH) – Туркменистан сегодня}}</ref><ref name="khod">{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=17013|title=Президент Туркменистана ознакомился с ходом реализации программы застройки Ашхабада|date=September 4, 2018|language=ru|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref><ref name="gurtly">{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=18150|title=Началась реализация второй очереди застройки жилого массива Гуртлы|first=Владимир|last=Комаров|date=February 18, 2019|language=ru|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref> In May 2021 the government announced plans for the "17th Line", consisting of a resort complex encircling Golden Lake ({{langx|tk|Altyn köl}}), the former Gurtly Reservoir, to include 268 vacation cottages plus buildings for public services and amenities.<ref name=Line17>{{cite news|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/54802/modern-cottage-complex-be-built-north-ashgabat |title=Modern cottage complex to be built in the north of Ashgabat |date=29 May 2021|first=Vladimir |last=Komarov |publisher="Turkmenistan: Golden Age"}}</ref>

On 23 August 2022 the government announced plans to demolish one- and two-story houses in several microdistricts of central Ashgabat and to replace them with modern apartment buildings. A map of the areas intended for urban renewal was broadcast on national television that day, but no indication of a timeline was given.<ref name=demolish>{{citation |url=https://www.hronikatm.com/2022/08/ashgabat-demolition-map/ |title=По туркменскому телевидению, кажется, впервые показали план сноса старых жилых домов в Ашхабаде. Их сотни |date=24 August 2022 |language=ru |publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan}}</ref><ref>{{citation |url=https://metbugat.gov.tm/newspaper/download?id=8904 |title=Президент Туркменистана ознакомился с положением дел на новостройках столицы |trans-title=President of Turkmenistan acquainted himself with the situation of new construction in the capital city |date=24 August 2022 |language=ru |publisher=[[Neytralny Turkmenistan]] |access-date=May 14, 2023 |archive-date=May 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514212850/https://metbugat.gov.tm/newspaper/download?id=8904 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The largest current residential project is construction of "Ashgabat-City" ''({{langx|tk|Aşgabat-siti}})'' north of the Choganly residential neighborhood, which is planned to include over 200 buildings on 744 hectares, and for the first time in the city's history to feature some buildings as tall as 35 stories.<ref name=siti>{{cite web|url=http://www.infoabad.com/novosti-turkmenistana/proekt-ashhabad-siti-byl-predstavlen-prezidentu-turkmenistana.html|title=Проект "Ашхабад-сити" был представлен Президенту Туркменистана|date=June 21, 2019|publisher=Infoabad|language=ru|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726185106/http://www.infoabad.com/novosti-turkmenistana/proekt-ashhabad-siti-byl-predstavlen-prezidentu-turkmenistana.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=siti2>{{cite web|url=https://business.com.tm/tm/post/4004/ashgabat--siti-107-mun-yashayja-niyetleny|title="Aşgabat – siti" 107 müň ýaşaýja niýetlenýär|language=tk|date=June 21, 2019|publisher=Biznes Turkmenistan}}</ref><ref name=ashgabatcity>{{cite news|url=https://www.hronikatm.com/2020/11/skyscraper/|title=В сейсмоопасном Ашхабаде построят 35-этажный небоскреб|date=19 November 2019|publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=acity2>{{cite news|url=https://www.hronikatm.com/2019/06/ashgabat-city/|title=Президенту Туркменистана показали грандиозный проект "Ашхабад-сити" (видео)|date=22 June 2019|publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=tdh>{{cite news|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx&article18526&cat11|title=Президент Гурбангулы Бердымухамедов ознакомился с масштабным градостроительным проектом|date=20 June 2019|language=ru|publisher=Туркменистан сегодня}}</ref> These will include 180 12- to 35-story residential buildings containing 17,836 apartments intended to house over 107,000 occupants.<ref name=abatcity1>{{cite news|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/54702/president-turkmenistan-participates-ground-breaking-ceremony-ashgabat-city-and-opening-residential-complex | title=The President of Turkmenistan participates in ground-breaking ceremony of Ashgabat city and opening of residential complex | date=25 May 2021 |publisher="Turkmenistan: Golden Age"}}</ref><ref name=abatcity2>{{cite news| url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/en/post/54732/exhibition-white-city-ashgabat-achievements-and-perspectives-development-capital | title=Exhibition "White City Ashgabat": Achievements and perspectives of development of the capital |date=24 May 2021  |publisher="Turkmenistan: Golden Age"}}</ref><ref name=urdupoint>{{cite news|url=https://www.urdupoint.com/en/business/turkmenistan-begins-capital-expansion-despite-1260026.html |title=Turkmenistan Begins Capital Expansion Despite Economic Crisis |first=Mohammad |last= Ali |date=26 May 2021 |publisher=UrduPoint Network}}</ref>

'''Ashgabat milestones:'''<ref>''Independent Neutral Turkmenistan: 10 Glorious Years of the Epoch of Turkmenbashi the Great'', Ashgabat, 2001, pp. 39–40 {{in lang|ru}}</ref>
* 1882–1918 – administrative center of Russia's [[Transcaspian Region]]
* 1918–1925 – administrative center of the Turkmen Oblast in the [[Turkestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic]]
* since February 1925 – capital of the [[Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic]]
* since October 1991 – capital of independent Turkmenistan

==Districts==
===Boroughs===
[[File:2018_01_06_ashgabat_etrapy_separation_24784.jpg|thumb|The four boroughs of the city]]

As of January 5, 2018, Ashgabat includes four boroughs (''uly etraplar''), each with a presidentially appointed mayor ({{langx|tk|häkim}}):<ref name=HM /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=15374|title=Постановление о вопросах административно-территориального деления города Ашхабада|date=January 5, 2018|access-date=July 10, 2018|archive-date=July 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708220911/http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=15374|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=15380|title=Глава государства подписал Постановления о переименовании и структурной реорганизации некоторых хякимликов Ахалского велаята и Ашхабада|date=January 5, 2018|access-date=July 10, 2018|archive-date=July 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708221040/http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=15380|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx&article10747&cat11|title=Меджлис Туркменистана внёс изменения в административно-территориальное деление города Ашхабада|date=January 5, 2018|access-date=May 24, 2021|archive-date=December 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203221926/http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx%26article10747%26cat11|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gundogar-news.com/index.php?category_id=1&news_id=12299|title=Парламент Туркменистана внёс изменения в административно-территориальное деление Ашхабада|date=January 6, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sng.today/ashkhabad/5651-v-turkmenistane-izmenilis-administrativnye-granicy-ashhabada-i-ahalskogo-regiona.html|title=В Туркменистане изменились административные границы Ашхабада и Ахалского региона|date=January 6, 2018}}</ref><ref name="cci.gov.tm">{{cite web|url=http://cci.gov.tm/index.php/ru/news/turkmenistan-novosti/4745-glava-gosudarstva-podpisal-postanovleniya-o-pereimenovanii-i-strukturnoj-reorganizatsii-nekotorykh-khyakimlikov-akhalskogo-velayata-i-ashkhabada|title=Глава государства подписал Постановления о переименовании и структурной реорганизации некоторых хякимликов Ахалского велаята и Ашхабада|date=January 8, 2018|access-date=July 10, 2018|archive-date=July 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709010016/http://cci.gov.tm/index.php/ru/news/turkmenistan-novosti/4745-glava-gosudarstva-podpisal-postanovleniya-o-pereimenovanii-i-strukturnoj-reorganizatsii-nekotorykh-khyakimlikov-akhalskogo-velayata-i-ashkhabada|url-status=dead}}</ref>

# [[Bagtyyarlyk District|Bagtyýarlyk etraby]] (formerly President Niyazov, Lenin District, expanded to include former Ruhabat District plus new territory)
# [[Berkararlyk District|Berkararlyk etraby]] (formerly Azatlyk, Sovetskiy District)
# [[Abadan District|Büzmeýin etraby]] (formerly Abadan District, expanded to include former Arçabil and Çandybil Districts)
# [[Kopetdag District|Köpetdag etraby]] (formerly Proletarskiy District)

This is a reduction from the previous number of boroughs. Arçabil and Çandybil boroughs were merged on February 4, 2015, and the new ''etrap'', named Arçabil, was in turn renamed Büzmeýin in January 2018. At that time the Abadan borough of Ashgabat, created in 2013 by annexing the town of Abadan and surrounding villages to Abadan's south, was abolished and its territory was merged into the newly renamed Büzmeýin borough. The former Ruhabat borough was abolished at the same time and its territory absorbed by Bagtyýarlyk borough.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=4117 |title=Ашхабад прирос новыми территориями |publisher=Государственное информационное агентство Туркменистана |date=2013-05-27 |access-date=2013-11-24 |archive-date=September 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180901215802/http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=4117 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

On 15 June 2020, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov announced intention to create a fifth borough of Ashgabat, to be called Altyn etraby, centered on the new resort zone created on the shores of the former Gurtly Water Reservoir, recently renamed "Golden Lake" (Altyn köl).<ref name=newborough>{{cite web|url=https://www.hronikatm.com/2020/06/golden-lake-project/|title=Бердымухамедов открыл Золотое озеро – очередной грандиозный проект|date=16 June 2020|publisher=Хроника Туркменистана|language=ru}}</ref>{{update inline|date=March 2024}}

===Microdistricts===
Ashgabat's boroughs are subdivided into microdistricts ({{langx|ru|микрорайоны, singular микрорайон}}, {{langx|tk|etrapçalar, singular etrapça}}). These are administrative units that possess no independent governance structures. They are used for management of utilities and publicly owned housing. Ashgabat includes the following microdistricts:

* 1 through 11 Etrapça
* 30 Etrapça
* Howdan A
* Howdan B
* Howdan W
* Parahat 1 through 8<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/Ashgabat#Microdistricts_of_Ashgabat|title=Ashgabat - OpenStreetMap Wiki|website=wiki.openstreetmap.org}}</ref><ref name=sofitel2>{{cite map|title=Ashgabat |publisher=Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan Enterprise No. 5 |place=Ashgabat |date=2011}}</ref><ref name=touristmap>{{cite map|title=Tourist Map of Turkmenistan / Ashgabat Map of City Centre |publisher=Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan Enterprise No. 5 |place=Ashgabat |date=2017}}</ref>

==Demographics==
In 1871, a Russian visitor named Strebnitskiy counted over four thousand "nomad tents" (yurts), implying a population of 16 to 20 thousand Ahal Teke Turkmen, many of whom were killed or dispersed in the 1881 [[Battle of Geok Tepe]]. The population was 2,500 in 1881, virtually all Russian.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> By 1886, Askhabad's population was about 10,000, mainly ethnic Russians.<ref name=encyclopedia /><ref name=guide /> Construction of the [[Trans-Caspian Railway]] stimulated an influx of migrants seeking employment, particularly from the Caucasus, Volga Valley, and Iran, and Askhabad's subsequent population growth was as follows:

* 1897: 19,426
* 1908: 39,867
* 1911: 45,384

Ethnic Russians dominated the population after 1881, with about 20 percent admixture of Caucasus-origin migrants (mainly Armenian).<ref name=encyclopedia /><ref name=turkmenistan /> One source indicates that pre-revolutionary Askhabad had no Turkmen residents at all, and that they lived in nearby ''auls''.<ref name=turkmenistan /> This began to change in the 1920s, following imposition of Soviet power, which brought with it forced [[Collectivization in the Soviet Union|collectivization]]. In 1926 Ashkhabad's population of 51,593 included 52.4% Russians, 13.53% Armenian, 4.3% Persians, and 29.8% "other". By 1939, Ashkhabad counted 126,500 residents, including 11.7% Armenian. The 1959 census recorded a population of 169,900, which grew to 338,000 by 1983, including 105 nationalities, of which ethnic Armenians constituted 40 percent.<ref name=encyclopedia />

According to estimates of the 2012 Turkmen census, the [[Turkmens]] form 78.5% of the city's population. [[Russians]] form 10% of the population, followed by [[Turkish people|Turks]] (1.1%), [[Uzbeks]] (1.1%), and [[Azeris]] (1%).<ref>{{cite web|author=Asgabat|title=Национальный и религиозный состав населения Туркменистана сегодня|url=http://asgabat.net/stati/obschestvo/nacionalnyi-i-religioznyi-sostav-naselenija-turkmenistana-segodnja.html|access-date=2016-05-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624062134/http://asgabat.net/stati/obschestvo/nacionalnyi-i-religioznyi-sostav-naselenija-turkmenistana-segodnja.html|archive-date=June 24, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===2022 census===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:right"	
! rowspan="3"  |[[Ethnicity]]
|-
! colspan="2" |2022 census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stat.gov.tm/population-census-pdfs/results/en/4.pdf |title=Results of the complete population and housing census of Turkmenistan 2022 |website=stat.gov.tm |access-date=11 April 2025}}</ref>
|- align="center"
! style="width:60px" | Population
!%
|-
|[[Turkmens]]
|925,656
|89.86
|-
|[[Russians]]
|68,188
|6.62
|-
|[[Azerbaijanis]]
|10,376
|1.0
|-
|[[Armenians]]
|9,761
|0.95
|-
|[[Uzbeks]]
|5,179
|0.5
|-
|[[Tatars]]
|2,585
|0.25
|-
|[[Kurds]]
|2,159
|0.21
|-
|[[Ukrainians]]
|1,460
|0.14
|-
|[[Kazakhs]]
|703
|0.07
|-
|[[Persians]]
|584
|0.06
|-
|[[Lezgins]]
|510
|0.05
|-
|[[Koreans]]
|164
|0.02
|-
|[[Baloch people|Balochi]]
|184
|0.02
|-
|[[Afghans]]
|101
|0.01
|-
|[[Karakalpaks]]
|31
|0.0
|-
|Other groups
|2,422
|0.24
|- class="sortbottom"
!Total
! 1,030,063
 !100%
|}

==Architecture==
[[File:Yyldyz Hotel.jpg|thumb|[[Yyldyz Hotel]] in Ashgabat]]
[[File:Ashgabat IMG 5819 (26111153395).jpg|thumb|[[Ashgabat Fountain|Ashgabat Oguzkhan Fountain]]]]

===Post-1991===
Following independence in 1991, President [[Saparmurat Niyazov]] began hiring foreign architectural and construction firms, most prominently [[Bouygues]] of France and the Turkish firms [[Polimeks]] and Gap Inşaat, the latter a subsidiary of [[Çalık Holding]]. These firms blended Persian-style domes, which Niyazov favored, with Greco-Roman architectural elements such as pillars.<ref name=buig>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/node/7529|title=French Bouygues to build new buildings for ministry of foreign affairs and ministry of education in Ashgabat|date=October 29, 2008|publisher=Turkmenistan.ru|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726045840/http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/node/7529|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=buig2>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/14896.html|title=President of Turkmenistan inaugurates new residence – Palace Complex "Oguzkhan"|date=May 19, 2011|publisher=Turkmenistan.ru|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=October 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026193919/http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/14896.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=pricey>{{cite web|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/third_turkmen_president_palace/24183704.html|title=Third Palace Is A (Pricey) Charm For Turkmen President|date=May 23, 2011|publisher=RFE/RL}}</ref><ref name=polimeks1>{{Cite web|url=http://polimeks.com/en/polimeks-construction|title=Polimeks Construction With all its projects|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=August 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805200635/http://polimeks.com/en/polimeks-construction|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=gap>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gapinsaat.com/completed-projects|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151031213204/http://www.gapinsaat.com/completed-projects|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 31, 2015|title=Gap Inşaat Completed Projects}}</ref>

Following Niyazov's death, domes began to go out of fashion for buildings other than mosques, and public buildings began to take on more [[Modern architecture|modernist]] characteristics, often with a motif reflecting the structure's intended occupant. For example, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building is topped by a globe of the Earth, inside which is a conference center; the Development Bank building is topped by a giant coin; the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry building is shaped like a stylized [[caduceus]], the dental hospital is shaped like a [[Molar (tooth)|molar]] and the international terminal of [[Ashgabat International Airport]] is shaped like a [[falcon]].<ref name=falcon>{{cite web|url=https://www.calvertjournal.com/articles/show/7061/wild-architecture-new-east|title=Architecture gone wild: the 12 most insanely great contemporary buildings of the New East|publisher=The Calvert Journal|date=November 2, 2016|first=Elise|last=Morton}}</ref> The dominant characteristic of new construction since 1991 has been nearly universal facing with white marble.<ref name=lb>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Business/International/2013/Feb-24/207704-turkmenistan-rebuilds-capital-into-marble-white-city.ashx#axzz2ha0cVVee|title=Turkmenistan rebuilds capital into marble 'white city'|publisher=Daily Star (Lebanon)/Agence France Presse|first=Anton|last=Lomov|date=February 24, 2013|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=July 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726191844/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Business/International/2013/Feb-24/207704-turkmenistan-rebuilds-capital-into-marble-white-city.ashx#axzz2ha0cVVee|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=ria>{{cite web|url=https://ria.ru/20151217/1342501669.html|title=Ашхабад: беломраморный город любви|language=ru|date=December 17, 2015|publisher=Международное информационное агентство "Россия сегодня"}}</ref> Another recurring motif is the eight-pointed star of [[Oghuz Khagan|Oguz Han]], the largest of which is on the television tower and has entered the Guinness Book of World Records.<ref name=star>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=133|title=Звезда Огуз хана – в Книге рекордов Гиннесса|language=ru|date=October 30, 2011|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref><ref name=star2>{{cite web|url=https://www.tema.ru/travel/turkmenistan-1/|title=Туркмения. Часть I. Восьмиконечные звезды и гёли|date=May 31, 2014|language=ru|publisher=Артемий Лебедев}}</ref><ref name=varlamov>{{cite web|url=https://varlamov.ru/1747480.html|title=Ashgabat, Turkmenistan|first=Ilya|last=Varlamov|date=May 29, 2016|publisher=varlamov.ru}}</ref> The official Turkmen government guide book to Ashgabat refers to the star of Oguz Khan as "...the basic dominant of the whole architectural-art decor..."<ref name=guide />

After independence, the city architect's office ordered construction of many high-rise (generally 12-story) residential buildings. Modern construction techniques allow high-rise development with good seismic safety. Primarily consisting of residential towers, the first floor is typically used as retail space and for building maintenance.<ref name=ria/>

===Monuments and statues===
Ashgabat features many sculptures honoring Turkmen, Turkic, and other Islamic poets and heroes. Four statues, of Lenin, [[Alexander Pushkin]], [[Taras Shevchenko]], and [[Magtymguly]], date to the Soviet period, as do a statue and a bust of Turkmen composer [[Nury Halmammedov]]. Since then, however, much new sculpture has appeared. In Ylham (Inspiration) Park are found numerous busts and statues. Additional statues can be seen in the VDNH Park. A monumental statue of the current president was dedicated in May 2015 near Ashgabat Stadium. One also finds statues of [[Mustafa Kemal Atatürk]] and [[Alp Arslan]]. In addition to the statue of former President Niyazov atop the Neutrality Monument, a gilded statue of him stands before the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and a gilded seated statue of him graces the entry to the Turkmen Agricultural University.

Since independence in 1991, several monuments to features of Turkmenistan's governance have been erected: to neutrality, to the constitution, to the renaissance of Turkmenistan, to independence, as well as a special monument to former President [[Saparmurat Niyazov]]'s magnum opus, ''[[Ruhnama]]''.

The memorial complex in Bekrewe includes a statue of a bull with the Earth balanced on its horns, symbolizing the 1948 earthquake, and a statue of two traditionally dressed Turkmen warriors guarding a widow grieving the death of her husband in World War II. The exterior wall of the museum features bas reliefs depicting events in Turkmenistan's history.

In advance of the V Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games held in September 2017, roughly one billion dollars was spent on widening and upgrading Ashgabat's major thoroughfares.<ref name=osm /> Several traffic circles were created, in which were placed mainly abstract monuments. As of 2020 the most recent addition to these are the Bicycle Monument ({{langx|tk|Welosiped binasy}}), which President Berdimuhamedov dedicated on June 3, 2020, and the Turkmen Alabay monument, dedicated on November 10, 2020.<ref name=bike>{{cite web|url=https://business.com.tm/post/5585/bicycle-monument-opened-in-ashgabat-on-world-bicycle-day|title=Bicycle Monument Opened in Ashgabat on World Bicycle Day|date=June 3, 2020|publisher=Business Turkmenistan}}</ref><ref name=alabay>{{cite news|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-54894828|title=Turkmenistan leader unveils giant gold dog statue|date=12 November 2020}}</ref>

In May 2024, a [[Magtymguly Pyragy Cultural Park Complex|monument]] dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the birth of Turkmen poet and philosopher [[Magtymguly Pyragy]] was unveiled in Ashgabat, near [[Walk of Health]] at the foot of the [[Kopetdag]] mountain range.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tass.ru/obschestvo/20836235|title=В Ашхабаде открыли памятник поэту Фраги|website=TACC}}</ref> The 60-meter sculpture of the poet stands on a 20-meter pedestal, to which a majestic staircase with massive granite bowls leads.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://azertag.az/ru/xeber/v_turkmenistane_otkryli_60_metrovyi_pamyatnik_poetu_mahtumkuli_fragi-3009874|title=В Туркменистане открыли 60-метровый памятник поэту Махтумкули Фраги - АЗЕРТАДЖ}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/78189/v-ashhabade-torzhestvenno-otkryli-pamyatnik-poetu-mahtumkuli-fragi#google_vignette|title=В Ашхабаде торжественно открыли памятник поэту Махтумкули Фраги &#124; Общество}}</ref>

In October 2024, a statue of Kazakh poet [[Abai Qunanbaiuly]] was unveiled in Lachyn Park in Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tdh.gov.tm/ru/post/42519/v-stolice-turkmenistana-otkryli-pamyatnik-abayu-kunanbajuly|title=В столице Туркменистана открыли памятник Абаю Кунанбайулы|website=tdh.gov.tm}}</ref>

===Controversies===
Much of the urban renewal since 1991 has involved demolition of traditional single-family residential housing, commonly with allegedly forced eviction of residents, and often without compensation to the homeowners. In particular, private homes rebuilt in neighborhoods flattened by the 1948 earthquake, many of which were never formally registered with the government, were subject to confiscation and demolition without compensation, as were former dacha communities like Ruhabat, Berzengi, and Choganly, which in nearly all cases lacked formal ownership documents.<ref name=hrw>{{cite web|url= https://www.hrw.org/news/2011/10/25/turkmenistan-open-letter-president-berdymukhadmedov-regarding-ongoing-expropriation#|title=Turkmenistan: Open Letter to President Berdymukhadmedov regarding ongoing expropriation and demolition of homes in Ashgabat and the surrounding Akhal region|date=October 25, 2011}}</ref><ref name=amnesty>{{cite web|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2015/10/turkmenistan-satellite-images-reveal-how-mass-forced-evictions-blight-upcoming-asian-games/|title=Turkmenistan: Satellite images reveal how mass forced evictions blight upcoming Asian Games|date=October 27, 2015|publisher=Amnesty International}}</ref><ref name=hrw2>{{cite web|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2017/09/04/turkmenistan-homeowners-evicted-denied-compensation|title=Turkmenistan: Homeowners Evicted, Denied Compensation|date=September 4, 2017|publisher=Human Rights Watch}}</ref><ref name=eur>{{cite web|url=https://eurasianet.org/turkmenistan-the-human-toll-of-ashgabats-evictions|title=Turkmenistan: The Human Toll Of Ashgabat's Evictions|date=April 21, 2007|publisher=Eurasianet|first=Farangis|last=Najibullah}}</ref><ref name=statehum1>{{cite web|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/j/drl/rls/hrrpt/2009/sca/136095.htm|title=Turkmenistan: 2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices|date=2009|publisher=U.S. Department of State}}</ref><ref name=statehum2>{{cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/reports/2018-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/turkmenistan/|title=2018 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Turkmenistan|date=2019|publisher=U.S. Department of State}}</ref>

===First Baha'i Temple in the world===
[[File:Ashkabad Temple Bahai.jpg|thumb|left|First Bahá'í House of Worship 1908]]
{{Main|Bahá'í Faith in Turkmenistan}}

When Ashgabat was under [[Bahá'í Faith in Russia|Russian rule]], the number of Bahá'ís in the city rose to over 1,000, and a Bahá'í community was established, with its own schools, medical facilities and cemetery. The community elected one of the first Bahá'í [[Local Spiritual Assembly|local administrative institutions]]. In 1908 the Bahá'í community completed the construction of the first [[Bahá'í House of Worship]], sometimes referred to by its Arabic name of ''mašriqu-l-'aḏkār'' ({{langx|ar|مشرق اﻻذكار}}),<ref name="Smith">{{cite encyclopedia |last= Smith |first= Peter |encyclopedia= A concise encyclopedia of the Bahá'í Faith |title= Mashriqu'l-Adhkhár |year= 2000 |publisher= Oneworld Publications |location= Oxford |isbn= 1-85168-184-1 |page= [https://archive.org/details/conciseencyclope0000smit/page/235 235] |url= https://archive.org/details/conciseencyclope0000smit/page/235 }}</ref> where people of all religions may worship [[God]] without denominational restrictions.<ref name="iranica" /> The building was designed under the guidance of [[`Abdu'l-Bahá]] by Ustad' Ali-Akbar Banna Yazdi who also wrote a history of the Baha'is in Ashgabat.<ref>{{cite book|title=Cultural Change and Continuity in Central Asia|first=Shirin |last=Akiner|editor-last=Kegan |editor-first=Paul|year=1991|publisher=Routledge|page=293}}</ref><ref name="us_ashkabad">{{cite web|title=Baha'i House of Worship – Ashkabad, Central Asia |url=http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple-ashkabad |access-date=2007-08-03 |year=2007 |publisher=The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808220600/http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple-ashkabad |archive-date=August 8, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The House of Worship itself was surrounded by gardens, with four buildings at the four corners of the gardens: a school, a hostel where travelling Bahá'ís were entertained, a small hospital, and a building for groundskeepers.<ref name="us_ashkabad" />

Under the [[Religion in the Soviet Union#Policy toward religions in practice|Soviet policy towards religion]], the Bahá'ís, strictly adhering to their principle of obedience to legal government, abandoned these properties in 1928.<ref name="obey">{{cite book | last = Effendi | first = Shoghi | author-link = Shoghi Effendi | title = The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh | publisher = US Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1991 first pocket-size edition | date = 1936-03-11 | location = Haifa, Palestine |pages = 64–67 | url =http://reference.bahai.org/en/t/se/WOB/wob-34.html#pg64}}</ref> For the decade from 1938 to 1948, when it was seriously damaged by the earthquake, it was an [[art museum|art gallery]]. It was demolished in 1963.<ref name="iranica">{{cite encyclopedia|encyclopedia= Encyclopædia Iranica |year= 1989 |article=Bahai temples | first = V.| last = Rafati |author2=Sahba, F.}}</ref>

=== Other notable structures===
The [[Arch of Neutrality]] was dismantled and re-erected in its original form in the south of the capital.

[[Turkmenistan Tower]], the television and radio broadcasting tower, at a height of 211 meters is the tallest structure in the country. It was dedicated on October 17, 2011.<ref name=ria />

The administrative center of Ashgabat as the national capital is on the [[Archabil highway]], where several ministries and agencies, as well as educational, research, and cultural centers, are found.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=2877|title=Будущее беломраморной столицы|publisher=Электронная газета "Золотой век"|access-date=2013-11-24|first=Владимир|last=Комаров|archive-date=October 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006124748/http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=2877|url-status=dead}}</ref> The former Novofiryuzenskoye shosse (New Firyuza Highway) was rebuilt by Gap Inşaat in 2004.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}

{{wide image|Panorama of Ashgabat.jpg|1000px|align-cap=center|Panorama of Ashgabat at night}}

==Economy==
The principal industries are [[cotton]] textiles and metal working. It is a major stop on the [[Trans-Caspian railway]]. A large percentage of the employment in Ashgabat is provided by the state institutions; such as the ministries, undersecretariats, and other administrative bodies of the Turkmenistan government. There are also many foreign citizens working as diplomats or clerks in the embassies of their respective countries. Ashgabat lends its name to the [[Ashgabat agreement]], signed by [[India]], [[Oman]], [[Iran]], [[Turkmenistan]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Kazakhstan]], for creating an international transport and transit corridor facilitating transportation of goods between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Hans-Classroom/2016-03-24/Ashgabat-Agreement/215932|title=Ashgabat Agreement|website=The Hans India|date=March 24, 2016|access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref>

In 2019 and 2020, Ashgabat was the most expensive city in the world for foreign [[expatriate]]s in [[ECA International]]'s Cost of Living Survey.<ref name="USN-cost">{{cite news|url=https://www.usnews.com/news/cities/articles/2019-06-18/ashgabat-turkmenistan-is-the-worlds-most-expensive-city-for-expats |publisher=[[U.S. News & World Report]] |title=Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Is the World's Most Expensive City for Expats |first=Wilson |last=Chapman |date=18 June 2019 |access-date=3 July 2020}}</ref><ref name=bbc2021>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57564902 |title=Turkmenistan's capital tops list of most expensive cities for expats |date=22 June 2021 |publisher=BBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3091525/hong-kong-falls-two-places-become-sixth-most |title=Hong Kong falls two places to become sixth-most expensive city for expats |first=Kanis |last=Leung |publisher=[[South China Morning Post]] |date=2 July 2020 |access-date=3 July 2020}}</ref> It was also listed as the second most expensive city in the world overall by the 2020 [[Mercer (consulting firm)|Mercer]] Cost of Living Survey.<ref name="Forbes-cost">{{cite news |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/oliverwilliams1/2020/06/08/the-10-most-expensive-cities-in-the-world-just-became-pricier/#6cabfd626aee |work=[[Forbes]] |first=Ollie |last=Williams |title=The 10 Most Expensive Cities in the World Just Became Pricier |date=8 June 2020 |access-date=3 July 2020}}</ref> Its high cost of living for foreigners has been attributed to severe inflation and rising import costs.<ref name="USN-cost"/><ref name="Forbes-cost"/><ref name=hanke>{{cite web|url=https://en.hronikatm.com/2018/06/expert-annual-inflation-rate-in-turkmenistan-reached-almost-300/|title=Expert: annual inflation rate in Turkmenistan reached almost 300%|publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan|date=June 6, 2018}}</ref>

===Industry===
Between 1881 and 1921, little industry existed in Ashgabat. Muradov relates that in 1915 the city featured "68 enterprises, mainly semi-handicrafts, with a total of 200-300 workers".<ref name=muradov3 /> Another source relates that as of 1911 roughly half the workforce of somewhat more than 400 "workers" was employed at the railroad depot, engaged in locomotive and railcar maintenance and repair, with the rest occupied in cotton ginning, cottonseed oil extraction, flour milling, and leather-, brick-, glass-, and iron production.<ref name=encyclopedia /> By 1915 the city boasted as well three printing houses, an electrical power station, three cotton gins, a creamery, a tannery, and 35 brickyards.<ref name=guide />

In 1921 Soviet authorities built a new glass plant plus a wine and spirits factory. In the years following several more factories were added, including the "Red Metalworker" iron-working plant (1925), the silk spinning plant (1928), a cotton spinning plant and textile plant (1929), candy factory (1930), garment factory (1933), shoe factory (1934), and a meat cannery (1938).<ref name=encyclopedia /> As of 1948, Ashgabat boasted "about twenty large factory-plant enterprises, which produce fabrics, glass, footwear, garments, meat products, dredges, agricultural implement parts and much else".<ref name=turkmenistan /><ref name=geotext>{{cite book|url=https://docplayer.biz.tr/181461559-Turkmenistanyn-bilim-ministrligi-tarapyndan-hodurlenildi.html#show_full_text|title=Türkmenistanyň Geografiýasy|language=Turkmen|date=2010|place=Ashgabat|publisher=Bilim Ministrligi|last1=Çaryýew|first1=B.|last2=Ilamanow|first2=Ýa.}}</ref>

Annexation of the former city of [[Büzmeýin, Turkmenistan|Buzmeyin]] ({{langx|tk|Büzmeýin}}), which from 2002 to 2018 was known as Abadan,<ref name="cci.gov.tm"/> brought into Ashgabat's city limits its major industrial suburb. Today's Buzmeyin neighborhood features the Buzmeyin State Electrical Power Plant, and factories for production of reinforced concrete, cement, asbestos roofing, pipes, and concrete blocks, as well as a carpet-weaving factory and soft-drink bottling plant.<ref name=encyclopedia />

Today more than 43 large and 128 medium-sized industrial enterprises along with over 1,700 small industrial facilities are located in Ashgabat and its suburbs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ashgabathotels.ru/ashgabat.htm|title=Ашхабад, Туркменистан|access-date=March 12, 2015|archive-date=June 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170609085945/http://www.ashgabathotels.ru/ashgabat.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> The most important are Ashneftemash, Turkmenkabel, and Turkmenbashy Textile Complex.<ref>{{cite web|first=Федор|last=Забродин|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/node/16744|title=Сделано в Туркменистане|publisher=Turkmenistan.ru|access-date=March 12, 2015}}</ref>

====Electrical power generation====
The Abadan State Power Plant (now Büzmeýin State Power Plant), commissioned in 1957, was the first large power plant in Turkmenistan. Two gas turbine plants with a capacity of 123 MW each currently generate electricity in this plant.<ref name=minenergo>{{cite web|url=http://www.minenergo.gov.tm/tm/node/14|title="Türkmenenergo" döwlet elektroenergetika korporasiýasy|date=14 February 2016|language=Turkmen|publisher=Ministry of Energy (Turkmenistan)|access-date=11 April 2021|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411201132/http://www.minenergo.gov.tm/tm/node/14|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Ashgabat State Power Plant, located in the southern part of city, began operating in 2006. It is equipped with gas turbine generators with a total capacity of 254.2 megawatts.<ref name=minenergo />

Ashgabat also draws power from the Ahal State Power Plant, located outside the city in [[Ahal Province]]. It began operating in 2010 with two gas turbines producing 254.2 MW. Three small gas turbines were added in 2013 and two more gas turbines in 2014, bringing capacity to 648.1 MW.<ref name=minenergo />

===Shopping===

{{Multiple image
| align             = center
| direction         = horizontal
| width             = 
| image1            = Berkarar.jpg
| total_width       = 600
| alt1              = 
| caption1          = [[Berkarar]] Shopping and Entertainment Centre
| image2            = Ashgabat Mall.jpg
| alt2              = 
| caption2          = [[Ashgabat Mall]] inside
| image3            = Tolkuchka Bazaar in Ashgabat.jpg
| alt3              = 
| caption3          = [[Turkmen carpet]]s in [[Altyn Asyr Bazaar]]
}}

[[Altyn Asyr Bazaar]] in Choganly, also known as "Tolkuchka", features manufactured items including traditional fabrics and hand-woven carpets, as well as livestock and used automobiles.

Modern shopping areas are found mostly in central streets,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.infoabad.com/70-nazvany-luchshie-torgovye-predprijatija-ashhabada.html|title=Названы лучшие торговые предприятия Ашхабада — НОВОСТИ ТУРКМЕНИСТАНА|website=www.infoabad.com}}</ref> including the modern [[Berkarar|Berkarar Mall]], Arkaç Mall,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sng.fm/ashkhabad/31849-v-istoricheskom-rajone-ashhabada-pojavilsja-sovremennyj-arhitekturnyj-kompleks.html|title=В историческом районе Ашхабада появился современный архитектурный комплекс » Голос СНГ|website=Голос СНГ}}</ref> [[Ashgabat Shopping and Entertainment Center]],<ref>{{cite news|title=Торгово-развлекательный центр "Ашхабад"|language=ru|trans-title=Ashgabat Shopping and Entertainment Center|date=October 18, 2021|website=turkmenportal.com|url=https://turkmenportal.com/catalog/20173|access-date=September 6, 2024}}</ref> Gül Zemin<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/46481/v-ashhabade-vozobnovit-rabotu-trc-gul-zemin|title=В Ашхабаде возобновит работу ТРЦ "Гуль земин" &#124; Общество}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://arzuw.news/novyj-trc-g-l-zemin-nachal-rabotu-v-ashhabade|title=Новый ТРЦ "Gül zemin" начал работу в Ашхабаде|first=Arzuw|last=NEWS|date=November 11, 2020}}</ref>  and [[Paýtagt Shopping Center|Paýtagt]], as well as the 15 Years of Independence Shopping Centre ({{langx|tk|15 ýyl Garaşsyzlyk söwda merkezi}}), colloquially known as the "Wholesale Market" ({{langx|ru|Optovyy rynok}}).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiAsgabatAlisverisMerkezi.aspx|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005065237/http://www.polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiAsgabatAlisverisMerkezi.aspx|url-status=dead|title=Ashgabat Shopping Mall|archivedate=October 5, 2013}}</ref><ref name=optovyy>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenhabargullugy.blogspot.com/2016/11/asgabatdaky-sowda-merkezleri.html|title=Turkmen Habar Gullugy: Aşgabatdaky Söwda Merkezleri|first=Turkmen Habar|last=Gullugy|date=November 18, 2016}}</ref><ref name=optovyy2>{{Cite web|url=https://foursquare.com/v/15-%C3%BDyl-gara%C5%9Fsyzlyk-s%C3%B6wda-merkezi/4eb66decbe7bfc284ab9863e|title="15 ýyl Garaşsyzlyk" söwda merkezi|website=Foursquare}}</ref>

Local residents tend to shop at traditional bazaars: [[Russian Bazaar, Ashgabat|Gülistan (Russian) Bazaar]], Teke Bazaar, Daşoguz Bazaar, Paytagt (Mir) Bazaar, and Jennet Bazaar. The Turkish-owned Yimpaş department store closed as of December 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.chrono-tm.org/2016/12/the-shopping-centre-yimpas-in-ashgabat-dismisses-staff-before-closing/|title=The shopping centre Yimpas in Ashgabat dismisses staff before closing|date=December 12, 2016|publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan|access-date=August 2, 2017|archive-date=August 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803014308/http://en.chrono-tm.org/2016/12/the-shopping-centre-yimpas-in-ashgabat-dismisses-staff-before-closing/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Transportation==
[[File:Ashgabat_Airport_(35816758890).jpg|thumb|left|The falcon shape of the international terminal of Ashgabat International Airport]]
[[File:Ashgabat Airport (36075375061).jpg|thumb|left|Inside the international terminal of Ashgabat International Airport]]

The city is served by the [[Ashgabat International Airport]], expansion of which cost $2.3&nbsp;billion and which has a design capacity of 14,000,000 passengers per year.<ref name=reuters>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-turkmenistan-airport/turkmenistan-opens-2-3-billion-bird-shaped-international-air-terminal-idUSKCN11N0QX|title=Turkmenistan opens $2.3&nbsp;billion bird-shaped international air terminal|date=September 17, 2016|publisher=Reuters}}</ref><ref name=poli>{{cite web|url=http://polimeks.com/en/buildingdetail/46/6/ashgabat-international-airport|title=Ashgabat International Airport, Turkmenistan 2016|publisher=Polimeks|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=January 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200108183755/http://polimeks.com/en/buildingdetail/46/6/ashgabat-international-airport|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ashgabat International Airport |url=https://centreforaviation.com/data/profiles/airports/ashgabat-international-airport-asb |website=CAPA Centre for Aviation |publisher=Aviation Week Network |access-date=2 Aug 2020}}</ref> [[Turkmenistan Airlines]] is headquartered at the airport.<ref>"Directory: World Airlines." ''[[Flight International]]''. March 30–5 April 2004. [http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2004/2004-09%20-%200330.html?search=%22Turkmenistan%20Airlines%2287].</ref> Ashgabat offers air service to and from all the major cities of the Turkmenistan. Since March 2020, in order to prevent the import and spread of coronavirus infection, all planes arriving in Turkmenistan from abroad are redirected to the Turkmenabat International Airport.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/25818/aviareisy-izza-predelov-turkmenistana-vremenno-perenapravlyayutsya-v-turkmenabat|title = Авиарейсы из-за пределов Туркменистана временно перенаправляются в Туркменабат &#124; Общество| date=May 12, 2023 }}</ref>

On 18 October 2006, the [[Ashgabat Cable Car]] opened, connecting the city with the foothills of the [[Kopetdag]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/node/5009 |title=Turkmen president attends inaugurations of three facilities dated to 15th anniversary of Turkmenistan |publisher=Turkmenistan.ru |access-date=2013-11-24 |archive-date=July 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726100450/http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/node/5009 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

[[Ashgabat Monorail]] commenced service in 2016, becoming the first monorail in the [[Central Asia]] region.<ref>{{cite web|title=Intamin Transportation |url=http://www.intaminworldwide.com/transportation/Home/news/Ashgabat |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419150734/http://www.intaminworldwide.com/transportation/Home/news/Ashgabat |archive-date=April 19, 2016}}</ref><ref name=mono2>{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/turkmenistan-asian-games-opening/28740101.html |title=International Games Open In Ashgabat |date=17 September 2017 |publisher=[[RFE/RL]]}}</ref><ref name=mono3>{{cite web|url=https://www.monorails.org/tMspages/CnstAshgabat01.html |title=Construction Gallery - Ashgabat, Turkmenistan |publisher=The Monorail Society |date=May 2014}}</ref> It is a loop 5.2 kilometers long and circulates exclusively on the territory of the Olympic Village ({{langx|tk|Olimpiýa şäherçesi}}).<ref name=mono2 /><ref name=mono3 />

In January 2018, it was reported that black cars had been impounded for weeks in Ashgabat, a result of President [[Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov]]'s conviction that black cars bring bad luck.<ref>{{cite news|title='Bad Luck' For Black Car Owners in Turkmen Capital|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/turkmenistan-black-car-owners-bad-luck/28963539.html|publisher=[[Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty]]|date=January 8, 2018}}</ref>

The Ukrainian construction firm Interbudmontazh has proposed construction of a [[Rapid transit|subway (metropolitan)]] line, to connect the Ashgabat-Siti residential area in the northern suburbs to downtown Ashgabat.<ref name=metro>{{cite news|url=https://www.hronikatm.com/2020/05/metro/|title=Представлен проект метрополитена, который свяжет столицу Туркменистана с "Ашхабад-сити"|date=27 May 2020 |language=Russian |publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan}}</ref>

=== Autobahn ===
[[File:Streets of Ashgabat (2) (31110029667).jpg|thumb|Streets of Ashgabat]]
Ashgabat is linked<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mir24.tv/news/16481168/novaya-trassa-prezident-turkmenistana-proehal-po-uchastku-avtobana-ashhabad-turkmenabat-na-kamaze|title=Новая трасса: президент Туркменистана проехал по участку автобана Ашхабад – Туркменабат на КамАЗе}}</ref> to [[Tejen]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://orient.tm/ru/post/35050/skorostnaya-trassa-ashhabad-tedzhen-otkryvaetsya-29-oktyabrya|title=Скоростная трасса Ашхабад-Теджен открывается 29 октября|date=October 29, 2021|website=Orient}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/43361/novaya-doroga-soedinit-tedzhen-i-turkmenabat|title=Новая дорога соединит Теджен и Туркменабат &#124; Общество}}</ref> [[Mary, Turkmenistan|Mary]], [[Türkmenabat]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mir24.tv/news/16577740/stroitelstvo-tretego-etapa-avtobana-ashhabad-turkmenabat-nachali-v-turkmenistane|title=Строительство третьего этапа автобана Ашхабад – Туркменабат начал Туркменистан}}</ref> and neighbouring countries<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://business.com.tm/ru/post/10827/turkmenistan-avtomagistral-ashhabadturkmenabat-posposobstvuet-razvitiyu-transportnogo-soobshcheniya-s-uzbekistanom|title=Туркменистан: Автомагистраль Ашхабад–Туркменабат поспособствует развитию транспортного сообщения с Узбекистаном &#124; Региональный|date=September 28, 2023|website=Информационный центр}}</ref> by the country's 600&nbsp;km [[autobahn]] network.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/58206/prezident-turkmenistana-prinyal-uchastie-v-torzhestvennoj-ceremonii-vvoda-v-stroj-uchastka-ashhabad-tedzhen-vysokoskorostnoj-avtomagistrali|title=Президент Гурбангулы Бердымухамедов принял участие в открытии участка Ашхабад–Теджен автобана Ашхабад–Туркменабат|date=October 29, 2021|website=turkmenistan.gov.tm}}</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240119163959/https://salamnews.tm/ru/section/ykdysadyyet/ulag-kommunikasiya/turkmenistan-vstupil-v-stroitelstvo-zaklyuchitelnogo-etapa-vysokoskorostnoj-trassy-ashhabad-turkmenabad-0574d4 В Туркменистане приступили к заключительному третьему этапу строительства высокоскоростной автомобильной дороги Ашхабад-Туркменабат]</ref>

=== Railway ===
[[File:Turkmen Diesel locomotive2.jpg|thumb|Turkmenistan Railways Diesel locomotive CKD9A in Ashgabat]]
{{Main|Rail transport in Turkmenistan}}
Ashgabat has a single central railway station. In May 2009 the restoration of the [[Ashgabat railway station]] was completed. The railway station is made in Soviet-style architecture with its long point on the building roof.

The Trans-Caspian Railway ([[Türkmenbaşy, Turkmenistan|Türkmenbaşy]]–[[Balkanabat]]–[[Bereket]]–Ashgabat–[[Mary, Turkmenistan|Mary]]–[[Türkmenabat]]) runs through Ashgabat from east to west. Since 2006 there is also a train line from Ashgabat to the north, the [[Trans-Karakum Railway]].<ref name=rail>{{cite web|url=https://www.railway.gov.tm/|title=Turkmenistan Railways|language=tk, ru|publisher="Türkmendemirýollary" agentligi|access-date=July 28, 2020|archive-date=April 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413135742/https://railway.gov.tm/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

As of July 2021, the following railway routes are scheduled from and to Ashgabat:<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sng.today/ashkhabad/17259-turkmenistan-vosstanovil-vnutrennee-zheleznodorozhnoe-soobschenie.html|title = Туркменистан восстановил внутреннее железнодорожное сообщение}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.trend.az/business/transport/3432205.html|title=В Туркменистане полностью восстановлено ж/д сообщение|date=May 31, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/37296/v-turkmenistane-vveli-novyi-grafik-s-bolshim-chislom-poezdov-po-strane|title = В Туркменистане ввели новый график с большим числом поездов по стране &#124; Туризм| date=May 12, 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.railway.gov.tm/ru/schedule|title=Расписание &#124; АООТ "Демирёллары"|access-date=September 5, 2021|archive-date=January 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119214435/https://railway.gov.tm/ru/schedule|url-status=dead}}</ref>

*Ashgabat-[[Balkanabat]]
*Ashgabat-[[Türkmenbaşy, Turkmenistan|Türkmenbaşy]]
* Ashgabat-[[Dashoguz]]
* Ashgabat-[[Sarahs]]
* Ashgabat-[[Serhetabat]]
* Ashgabat-[[Amu Dar'ya (town)|Amyderýa]]

=== City buses and trolleybus ===
[[File:Ashgabat bus stop IMG 5627 (26085205046).jpg|thumb|Bus stop with air conditioning in Ashgabat]]
[[File:10-Ýyl Abadanchylyk Avenue.jpg|thumb|10-Ýyl Abadanchylyk Avenue]]
Public transport in the city consists mainly of buses. More than 100 bus<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ayauk.gov.tm/ru/route/a/index?type=0 |title=Route &#124; |publisher=Ayauk.gov.tm |date= |access-date=2022-03-16}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://ayauk.gov.tm/ru/item/947|title = В Ашхабаде будет запущен новый автобусный маршрут}}</ref> lines cover a total range of more than {{convert|2230|km|0|abbr=off}} with 700 buses running on urban routes. The city primarily uses [[Iran Khodro]] 0457 (Mercedes-Benz) and [[Hyundai Aero City|Hyundai New Super Aero City]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://awtoulag.gov.tm/ru/gallery/13|title=Türkmenawtoulaglar Agentligi|website=awtoulag.gov.tm}}</ref> buses.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=3215 |title=Туркменистан: золотой век |publisher=Turkmenistan.gov.tm |language=ru |date=2013-01-28 |access-date=2013-11-24 |archive-date=December 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202235050/http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=3215 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Bus timetables and detailed schematic map of the route are at every stop. Distances between stops are about 300–500 meters.

Travel in the Ashgabat city public transport for the majority of the country's population incurs a fee. Money is thrown into a box next to the driver. Large bills are given to the driver, he gives change. The fare for travel in city public transport is 50 Turkmen tenge (since 2017).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.kdmid.ru/docs.aspx?lst=country_wiki&it=/%D0%A2%D1%83%D1%80%D0%BA%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD.aspx |title=ТУРКМЕНИСТАН |language=ru |trans-title=Turkmenistan |publisher=Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia |date= |access-date=2022-03-16 |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331102442/https://www.kdmid.ru/docs.aspx?lst=country_wiki&it=/%D0%A2%D1%83%D1%80%D0%BA%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> Route taxi ([[marshrutka]]) is 1 manat.

Information about bus routes and stops in Ashgabat is available in the mobile application [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.takykcheshme.gps&hl=ru&gl=US Duralga].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/43888/novoe-mobilnoe-prilozhenie-duralga-predostavit-informaciyu-ob-avtobusnyh-marshrutah-i-ostanovkah-ashhabada|title=Новое мобильное приложение Duralga предоставит информацию об автобусных маршрутах и остановках Ашхабада &#124; Авто}}</ref>

From November 1, 2017, the electronic system of payment for public transport came into full force in Ashgabat. Payment can be made using an electronic transport card. There are three types of electronic cards: school, for pensioners and general. When entering through the front door of the bus, the passenger must present the electronic card to the validator. The term of use of the transport electronic card is 4 years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/12377/v-stolice-turkmenistane-perehodyat-na-elektronnuyu-sistemu-oplaty-proezda-v-avtobusah|title=В столице Туркменистане переходят на электронную систему оплаты проезда в автобусах &#124; Культура}}</ref>

The new [[International Passenger Bus Terminal of Ashgabat]] was inaugurated on September 5, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://centralasiaonline.com/en_GB/articles/caii/newsbriefs/2014/09/09/newsbrief-14|title=Turkmenistan to launch international bus service|access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/articles/38045.html |title=В Ашхабаде будет построен пассажирский автовокзал международного класса &#124; Интернет-газета |publisher=Turkmenistan.ru|language=ru |access-date=2013-11-24}}</ref> It offers intercity service to [[Bäherden]], [[Türkmenbaşy, Turkmenistan|Türkmenbaşy]], [[Dashoguz]], [[Turkmenabat]], [[Archman]], [[Konye-Urgench]], and Mollagara, as well as points in between.<ref name=busmenzil>{{cite web|url=http://www.awtomenzil.gov.tm/index.php?page=routes|title=International Bus Terminal of Ashgabat|language=tk, ru, en}}</ref> The main intracity bus terminals serving Ashgabat are near the Teke Bazaar and at the domestic airport terminal. Intercity lines are operated by [[Hyundai Universe]] Luxury, [[Iran Khodro]] SC 0457, [[Sahab Renault]] and [[Yutong]] ZK6129H.

Also, suburban communication has been established with [[Ýaşlyk]], [[Geok Tepe]], [[Gorjaw]], [[Yzgant]], [[Babarap]], [[Bugdaýly]], [[Anau, Turkmenistan|Annau]], [[Gämi]], [[Owadandepe]], Watan, Khurmant, Onaldy, Gami Dacha, Kasamly Julge, [[Gäwers, Turkmenistan|Gäwers]], Yashyldepe, Akdashayak, Niyazow, Suitchilik, [[Parahat]]. [[Pavlovo Bus Factory|PAZ]] 32054 buses and [[Volkswagen]] minibuses operate on suburban routes.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://awtomenzil.gov.tm/index.php?page=routes&spid=1 |title=Aşgabat şäherindäki halkara ýolagçy awtomenzili |access-date=September 5, 2021 |archive-date=September 13, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140913013130/http://awtomenzil.gov.tm/index.php?page=routes&spid=1 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Some intercity buses also stop at various other points in Ashgabat, including the airport and railway station.
 
From 19 October 1964 to 31 December 2011 the city also had the [[Trolleybuses in Ashgabat|Ashgabat trolleybus system]]. At the beginning of the twentieth century a narrow-gauge steam railway connected the city with the suburb of [[Archabil District|Firyuza]]. As of 2011, there were 7 routes in the city. As of 2011, the Ashgabat trolleybus fleet had 47 trolleybuses ([[Škoda 14Tr]]M) on its balance sheet. In 2000, the last obsolete trolleybuses of the JuMZ-T2 model were written off.

=== Taxi ===
In Ashgabat and Turkmenistan, taxicabs are mostly white or yellow coloured . Taxis have a small green illuminated cylinder-like "TAXI" sign on the roof of the car.<ref>[https://salamnews.tm/ru/section/ykdysadyyet/ulag-kommunikasiya/onlayn-taksi-hyzmatynda-indi-yol-nyrhyny-onunden-bilip-bolyar-93eb88 В приложении «Onlaýn taksi» теперь можно узнать цену проезда перед заказом | SalamNews]</ref>

Typically the taxicabs are  [[Toyota Corolla]], [[JAC J7]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://auh.com.tm/ru/item/644|title=Awtomobil Ulag Hyzmaty|website=auh.com.tm}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sng.today/ashkhabad/30619-v-turkmenistan-postupili-jelektromobili-jac-e-j7-dlja-goroda-arkadag.html|title=В Туркменистан поступили электромобили JAC E-J7 для города Аркадаг » "СНГ СЕГОДНЯ" - последние новости стран СНГ читайте на SNG.TODAY|website="СНГ СЕГОДНЯ" - последние новости стран СНГ читайте на SNG.TODAY}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/en/blog/61474/jac-ej7-electric-car-presented-at-transport-exhibition-in-ashgabat|title=JAC E-J7 electric car presented at transport exhibition in Ashgabat &#124; Auto}}</ref> and [[Hyundai Elantra]] along with other, mainly Asian, brands. Taxicabs are either sedans, station wagons, or MPVs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/52422/novye-toyota-corolla-popolnili-taksopark-sluzhby-onlayn-taksi|title=Новые Toyota Corolla пополнили таксопарк службы Onlaýn taksi &#124; Общество}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/59981/vyzvat-taksi-v-ashhabade-stalo-namnogo-proshche-i-udobnej | title=Вызвать такси в Ашхабаде стало намного проще и удобней | date=January 6, 2022 }}</ref> Most taxicabs are automatic transmission, and some have navigation systems on board.

In Ashgabat taxis are available at any time of the day or night. Passengers may also hire taxicabs via mobile apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://awtoulag.gov.tm/ru/item/287 |title=Onlaýn taksi – новый сервис по вызову такси в Ашхабаде |publisher=Awtoulag.gov.tm |date= |access-date=2022-03-16}}</ref> Other hailing methods, such as telephone based calls or raising one's hand on the street, are also common as well.

== Telecommunication ==
As of 2021, Ashgabat has two mobile phone service providers:
* [[Altyn Asyr (mobile operator)|Altyn Asyr]] is a Turkmen national state company for the provision of communication services, established in 2004. In 2010, the company launched a 3G network of UMTS standard, covering all districts of Ashgabat and the Ashgabat International Airport . On September 18, 2013, the [[4G]] network was put into operation using [[LTE (telecommunication)|LTE]] technology.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tmcell.tm/ru-RU/news-lte-start |title=TMCELL - TMCELL начинает подключение абонетов к сети LTE |website=tmcell.tm |access-date=17 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206052338/http://tmcell.tm/ru-RU/news-lte-start |archive-date=6 December 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Ashgabat City Telephone Network]] provides [[CDMA]] communication services (over 55 thousand subscribers). The network was created and put into operation by the company for the first time in 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://agts.tv/ru/about|title=О нас &#124; АГТС - Ашхабадская городская телефонная сеть|access-date=September 4, 2021|archive-date=September 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904233756/https://agts.tv/ru/about|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In addition to the mobile network providers, [[Turkmentelecom]] provides [[internet]] services.

[[Turkmenpochta]] is the official national postal operator of Turkmenistan. Based in Ashgabat, it currently operates through 38 postal offices in city.<ref>[https://www.turkmenpost.gov.tm/sahamca Bölümler]</ref>

=== Media ===

Notable newspapers published in Ashgabat include the daily newspapers ''Türkmenistan'' and ''[[Neytralny Turkmenistan]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://metbugat.gov.tm/newspapers/?id=11|title=TDNG|website=metbugat.gov.tm}}</ref>

[[File:Fernsehturm Türkmenistan teleradio merkezi.jpg|thumb|[[Turkmenistan Tower]]]]

==== TV ====
The main offices of 7 television channels are located in Ashgabat: Altyn Asyr, Yashlyk, Miras, Turkmenistan Sport, Turkmen Owazy, Ashgabat and Turkmenistan TV.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://telecom.tm/ru/onlinetv?tv_alias=3|title = Онлайн ТВ &#124; КЭ "Туркментелеком"}}</ref>

Ashgabat TV is main city channel. The channel tells about the events of social, cultural, economic life, the activities of scientific and educational institutions of the Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/articles/35681.html|title=На туркменском телевидении появится шестой канал &#124; Интернет-газета Turkmenistan.Ru|website=www.turkmenistan.ru}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://regnum.ru/news/1376430|title=В Туркмении в октябре 2011 года откроют новый телеканал|website=В Туркмении в октябре 2011 года откроют новый телеканал}}</ref>

Almost 136<ref name="turkmenportal.com">{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/compositions/145|title = В плей-листе IP TV теперь доступно почти 140 телеканалов| date=May 12, 2023 }}</ref> international TV channels are available in the [[IPTV]] playlist for subscribers of the [[Ashgabat City Telephone Network]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://agts.tv/ru/iptv|title=IPTV &#124; АГТС - Ашхабадская городская телефонная сеть|access-date=September 4, 2021|archive-date=September 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904235845/https://agts.tv/ru/iptv|url-status=dead}}</ref> Most of them are thematic channels: news, sports, scientific and educational, TV channels for children, channels of various genres of cinema, music.<ref name="turkmenportal.com"/>

Residents of Ashgabat also watch television via [[satellite]] dishes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/16525/sluhi-o-zaprete-prodazhi-sputnikovyh-antenn-v-turkmenistane-okazalis-lozhnymi|title = Слухи о запрете продажи спутниковых антенн в Туркменистане оказались ложными &#124; Культура| date=May 12, 2023 }}</ref>

==== Radio ====
As of 2008, Ashgabat has 4 FM stations: Owaz, Char Tarapdan, Miras and Watan. These stations can additionally be streamed through Turkmentelecom's website.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://telecom.tm/ru/radio|title = Радио &#124; КЭ "Туркментелеком"}}</ref>

==Human resources==
===Science and education===
{{Main|Education in Turkmenistan|:ru:Образование в Туркмении}}
{{See also|List of universities in Turkmenistan}}
[[File:Southern part of Ashgabat.jpg|thumb|Turkmen State Institute of Culture campus]]
[[File:Turkmen State Medical University.jpg|thumb|[[Turkmen State Medical University]]]]
Ashgabat is the most important educational center of Turkmenistan with several institutions of higher education. Magtymguly [[Turkmen State University]] was founded in 1950. The main university building is located on Beýik Saparmyrat Türkmenbaşy şaýoly. [[Turkmen State Medical University]] is situated in Ashgabat as well. It is subordinate to the Ministry of Health and Pharmaceutical Industry of Turkmenistan. Other prominent institutions are the [[Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management]], a main business school founded in 1980, as well as the [[Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction]], [[Turkmen Agricultural University]], and [[The National Institute of Sports and Tourism of Turkmenistan]]. In 2016, the English- and Japanese-medium [[Oguz Khan University of Engineering Technologies]] was opened with support of the Japanese government. The [[International University of Humanities and Development]] is another English-medium institution of higher education. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs' training ground is the [[Institute of International Relations (Turkmenistan)|Institute of International Relations]].<ref name=by>{{cite web|url=http://www.brsu.by/en/Turkmenistan/obrazovanie-v-turkmenistane|title=Образование в Туркменистане|publisher=Brest State A.S. Pushkin University|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=catalog>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/catalog/obrazovanie|title=ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ|publisher=Turkmenportal|language=ru}}</ref>

Ashgabat is home to five military academies: the [[:ru:Военный институт Министерства обороны Туркмении|Military Institute]], the Naval Institute, the Border Guards Institute, the Institute of National Security, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs Institute. In 2020 the Military Institute began accepting applications from women.<ref name=catalog /><ref name=milinst>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/24411/voennyi-institut-turkmenistana-otkryl-priem-na-uchebu-dlya-zhenshchin|title=Военный институт Туркменистана открыл прием на учебу для женщин|date=January 19, 2020|publisher=Turkmenportal|language=ru}}</ref>

Four international secondary schools operate in Ashgabat. The Russian Embassy sponsors the Russian-medium [[Joint Turkmen-Russian Secondary School|A.S. Pushkin Russo-Turkmen School]], the French construction company [[Bouygues]] sponsors a French school for children of its Francophone employees, the Turkish Embassy sponsors the Turkish-medium Turgut Ozal Turkmen-Turkish School, and the American Embassy sponsors the English-medium Ashgabat International School.<ref name=pushkin>{{cite web|url=http://www.trsosh.edu.tm/|title=СОВМЕСТНАЯ ТУРКМЕНО-РОССИЙСКАЯ СРЕДНЯЯ ОБЩЕОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНАЯ ШКОЛА ИМЕНИ А. С. ПУШКИНА|language=ru|publisher=СТРСОШ имени А.С. Пушкина}}</ref><ref name=fra>{{cite web|url=https://www.mlfmonde.org/etablissements/ecole-francaise-mlf-bouygues/|title=Ecole française Mlf Bouygues|language=fr|publisher=Mission laïque française}}</ref><ref name=turk>{{cite web|url=http://atal.meb.k12.tr/tema/okulumuz_hakkinda.php|title=Türkmenistan Aşgabat Türk Anadolu Lisesi|language=tr|publisher=T.C. MİLLÎ EĞİTİM BAKANLIĞI|access-date=July 28, 2020|archive-date=July 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728014915/http://atal.meb.k12.tr/tema/okulumuz_hakkinda.php|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=ais>{{cite web|url=https://www.qsi.org/ashgabat/|title=ASHGABAT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL|date=June 9, 2023 |publisher=Quality Schools International}}</ref>

Prior to establishment of Soviet authority in Turkmenistan, Ashgabat had only 11 schools and no scientific or research centers.<ref name=encyclopedia /> By 1948 Ashgabat had three institutions of higher education, 20 technical schools, 60 libraries, "and approximately the same number of kindergartens".<ref name=turkmenistan />

The [[Turkmen Academy of Sciences]] was founded June 29, 1951, and includes the unique Desert Institute among its 26 scientific research institutes, as well as the State Seismological Service, 17-degree-granting schools, two medical research centers, a library, and two print shops. The Academy of Sciences is the only institution in Turkmenistan accredited to award postgraduate degrees. In 2019, President Berdimuhamedov decreed that state funding of the Academy of Sciences would end within three years.<ref name=encyclopedia /><ref name=akadnauk>{{cite web|url=https://www.gazeta.ru/science/2019/02/11_a_12176593.shtml|title=Денег нет: конец туркменской науки?|date=February 11, 2019|publisher=Газета.Ru (Gazeta.Ru)|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=wapo>{{cite web|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/turkmenistan-to-cut-state-funding-for-science/2019/01/30/76e9528c-24c5-11e9-b5b4-1d18dfb7b084_story.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190131012959/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/turkmenistan-to-cut-state-funding-for-science/2019/01/30/76e9528c-24c5-11e9-b5b4-1d18dfb7b084_story.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 31, 2019|title=Turkmenistan to cut state funding for science|date=January 30, 2019|publisher=Washington Post/Associated Press}}</ref><ref name=decree>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=18003|title=Будет изменена система финансирования Академии наук Туркменистана|work=Туркменистан: золотой век|date=January 29, 2019|language=ru}}</ref><ref name=acadsci>{{cite web|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/en/articles.aspx&article16511&cat26|title=Financing of the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan to be {{as written|chna|ged [sic]}}|date=January 29, 2019|publisher=state news agency of Turkmenistan – Turkmenistan today|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727235817if_/http://tdh.gov.tm/news/en/articles.aspx&article16511&cat26|archive-date=July 27, 2020}}</ref> Prior to founding of the Turkmen Academy of Sciences, local scientific-research institutes, all located in a single two-story building, were subordinate to the USSR Academy of Sciences.<ref name=turkmenistan />

=== Health ===
Ashgabat is a center for healthcare and medical training of Turkmenistan. Large-scale reconstruction work on buildings and modernization of the material and technical base of existing healthcare institutions is constantly ongoing in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/53375/ashhabad-140-let-krupnyj-medicinskij-centr|title=Ашхабад-140 лет: крупный медицинский центр|date=April 7, 2021|website=www.turkmenistan.gov.tm}}</ref>

The Directorate of International Medical Centers<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyeti|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> in Ashgabat includes International Center Ene mähri<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-ene-mahri-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> (maternity hospital), International Center of Endocrinology and Surgery,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-endokrinologiya-we-hirurgiya-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Center of Head and Neck Diseases,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-kelle-we-boyun-kesellerini-bejeris-halkara-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Center of Eye Diseases,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-goz-kesellerini-bejeris-halkara-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Ashgabat Dental Center,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-stomatologiya-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>  International Center of Cardiology,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-kardiologiya-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Center of Internal Medicine,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-ic-keselleri-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Center of Neurology,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-newrologiya-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Diagnostic Center,<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-saglyk-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-halkara-saglygy-gorayys-anyklayys-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Education and Science Center,<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-okuw-ylmy-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> International Diagnostic Center,<ref name="auto1"/> International Education and Science Center,<ref name="auto"/> International Center of Traumatology<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/sikesleri-bejeris-halkara-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> and International Burn Center.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/halkara-lukmancylyk-merkezleri/halkara-yanyk-sikeslerini-bejeris-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> The main medical centers are located along Professor Hans Meissner Avenue in the south of Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tdh.gov.tm/ru/post/42560/postanovlenie-medzhlisa-turkmenistana-o-prisvoenii-imeni-professora-hansa-majsnera-ulice-1970-goroda-ashhabad|title=Постановление Меджлиса Туркменистана о присвоении имени профессора Ханса Майснера улице № 1970 города Ашхабад|website=tdh.gov.tm}}</ref> In 2024, they were opened International Health and Rehabilitation Center, and the International Scientific and Clinical Center of Physiology.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tdh.gov.tm/ru/post/42492/v-turkmenistane-otkryty-novye-uchrezhdeniya-zdravoohraneniya|title=В Туркменистане открыты новые учреждения здравоохранения|website=tdh.gov.tm}}</ref><ref>[https://mir24.tv/news/16605141/den-medika-v-turkmenistane-v-strane-otkryli-mezhdunarodnyi-ozdorovitelno-reabilitacionnyi-centr-i-nauchno-klinicheskii-centr-fiziologii]</ref>

Medical and preventive institutions in Ashgabat include: Scientific-Clinical Center of Oncology,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/onkologiya-ylmy-kliniki-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Scientific-clinical center for Maternal and Child health,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/enanin-we-caganyn-saglygyny-gorayys-ylmy-kliniki-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Treatment and Consultative centre named after S.А.Niyazov,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/s.a.nyyazow-adyndaky-bejeris-maslahat-beris-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Hospital with Scientific Clinical Centre of Cardiology,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/kardiologiya-ylmy-kliniki-merkezli-hassahanasy|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Emergency First Aid Center,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/gayragoyulmasyz-tiz-komek-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Central Bureau of Pathologic Anatomy,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/merkezi-patologik-anatomiya-edarasy|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Central Bureau of Forensic Medicine,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/merkezi-kazyyet-lukmancylyk-edarasy|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Central Medical-Recovery Hospital, Medical Diagnostic Center.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary?page=1|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>

The Directorate of Infectious Disease Centers is located in the Choganly residential complex in the north of Ashgabat, which includes Central Dermatovenerological Hospital,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/yokanc-keselleri-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-merkezi-deri-wenerologiya-hassahanasy|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Treatment and prevention Center for infectious diseases,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/yokanc-keselleri-merkezleri-mudiriyetinin-yokanc-keselleri-bejeris-onuni-alys-merkezi|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> Blood Center, National AIDS Prevention Center, Center for Treatment and Prevention of Tuberculosis and Centralized Laboratory.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/en/merkezi-bejeris-onuni-alys-edaralary/yokanc-keselleri-merkezleri-mudiriyeti|title=Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>

The central office of the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service is located in Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/dowlet-arassacylyk-we-kesellerin-yayramagyna-garsy-goresmek-gullugy/dowlet-arassacylyk-we-kesellerin-yayramagyna-garsy-goresmek-gullugynyn-merkezi-edarasy|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> The Center for Public Health and Nutrition<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/dowlet-arassacylyk-we-kesellerin-yayramagyna-garsy-goresmek-gullugy/jemgyyetcilik-saglygy-we-iymit-merkezi|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> and the Center for the Prevention of Particularly Dangerous Infections<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/dowlet-arassacylyk-we-kesellerin-yayramagyna-garsy-goresmek-gullugy/ayratyn-howply-yokanc-kesellerin-onuni-alys-merkezi|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref> operate in Ashgabat.

As of 2018, there are 16 [[Outpatient department|outpatient clinic]]'s operating in the Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://uk.tmembassy.gov.tm/en/news/15040|title=Столичная система первичной медико-санитарной помощи – пример для амбулаторных служб в регионах &#124; LONDON, UK - EMBASSY OF TURKMENISTAN|website=uk.tmembassy.gov.tm}}</ref>

==== Medical education ====
The following higher and secondary medical educational institutions operate in Ashgabat: [[Turkmen State Medical University]] named after Myrat Garryev, [[Indira Gandhi]] Secondary Medical School of Ashgabat. The following were established at the [[Turkmen State Medical University]]: in 2011 – the Scientific and Clinical Center for Eye Diseases, in 2013 – the Educational and Industrial Center for Dentistry, and in 2015 – the Educational and Scientific Center for the Protection of Maternal and Child Health.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/lukmancylyk-yokary-we-orta-hunar-okuw-mekdepleri|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>

==== Medical industry ====
The city pays great attention to the development of the pharmaceutical industry. The following medical industry and pharmaceutical supply institutions operate in Ashgabat: Turkmendermansenagat Association, Main Pharmacy Association, Center for Drug Registration and State Quality Control, Institute of Medicinal Plants, Saglyk Pharmaceutical Enterprise, Türkmen Ajanta Pharma Limited Joint Venture, Tenekär Pharmaceutical Enterprise, Berzengi Mineral Healing Water Enterprise, Disinfectant Solutions Production Enterprise.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/derman-senagaty-we-derman-upjunciligi-edaralary?page=1|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>

==== Sanatoriums ====
The Berzeňňi Sanatorium is located at the foothills of the Kopetdag mountains, 7.5 kilometers south of center of Ashgabat. Operating since 1967, a new building was inaugurated in 2012. The sanatorium features a unique mineral water source from a 1,600-meter-deep well. This water has a distinct hydrochemical composition, including magnesium sulfate, potassium, and low mineralization, and has various therapeutic properties. It is used to treat conditions such as digestive system diseases, hypertension, cardiovascular issues, and joint diseases. The sanatorium operates year-round, offering both outpatient and spa treatments.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://saglykhm.gov.tm/ru/sypahana-edaralary/berzenni-sypahanasy|title=Министерство здравоохранения и медицинской промышленности Туркменистана|website=saglykhm.gov.tm}}</ref>

== Culture ==
Ashgabat is the cultural heart of Turkmenistan.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.trtavaz.com.tr/haber/rus/avrasyadan/ashkhabad-stolitsa-turkmenistana/62ac53ea01a30a09648076aa | title=Ашхабад - столица Туркменистана - Avrasya'dan - Haber }}</ref> Ashgabat enjoys numerous theatres, museums, galleries, concert halls, cinemas and foreign cultural institutions.

=== Museums and galleries ===
[[File:Ashgabat flagpole.jpg|thumb|The State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan in front of [[Ashgabat Flagpole]]]]
On March 17, 1899, the official opening of the Trans-Caspian Regional Museum took place in Ashgabat. On November 12, 1998, the opening of the National Museum of Turkmenistan took place.<ref>[https://medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/organization/18 Türkmenistanyň Döwlet medeniýet merkeziniň Döwlet muzeýi]</ref> Its primary goal is to chronicle Turkmenistan's history in various forms from the earliest periods using historical and archaeological collections.  Since 2013, the museum began to be called [[The State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan]]. The total area of the museum is 165,323.21 m<sup>2</sup>. On the ground floor of the main building there is a department of Turkmenistan Independence, a department of [[Turkmen carpet]] and temporary exhibitions, on the second floor there is a department of [[Ancient History]], [[Margiana|Margush]], [[Parthia]] and two halls of the history of the [[Middle Age]]s. The Museum of the President of Turkmenistan of the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan was commissioned in June 2009. The main objective of this museum is a thorough study of information about the domestic and foreign policies of Turkmenistan. The Museum of Ethnography and Local History of the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan opened in May 2009. The exhibition on the first floor of the museum is dedicated to the nature of Turkmenistan. On the second floor there is an exhibition concerning the ethnography of Turkmenistan. The exhibition of the Museum of Nature consists of 11 sections.<ref>[https://www.museum.gov.tm/ru/content/1311 ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ МУЗЕЙ ТУРКМЕНИСТАНА]</ref>

Museums include the [[Turkmen Fine Arts Museum]] and [[Turkmen Carpet Museum]], noted for their impressive collection of [[woven carpet]]s as well as a Turkmen history museum and the [[Ashgabat National Museum of History]], which displays artifacts dating back to the [[Parthia]]n and [[Persian Empire|Persian]] civilizations.

The Watan Mukaddesligi Museum is located in the southwest of Ashgabat, within the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex. Opened in 2014, the museum focuses on preserving and showcasing the historical and cultural heritage of Turkmenistan. It features four thematic halls dedicated to events such as the Battle of Geoktepe, World War II, the 1948 Ashgabat earthquake, and the modern development of Ashgabat. The museum houses over 1,000 exhibits.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Watan mukaddesligi muzeýi |url=https://www.medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/organization/23 |website=Türkmenistanyň Medeniýet ministrligi}}</ref>

Since 2024, a private [[art gallery]] ART-bazar has been operating in Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-16 |title=Национальный колорит в новом креативном пространстве |url=https://turkmenistan.gov.tm/ru/post/91255/nacionalnyj-kolorit-v-novom-kreativnom-prostranstve |access-date=2025-01-17 |website=turkmenistan.gov.tm |language=ru}}</ref> ART-bazar is a creative space in Ashgabat showcasing works by artisans from various regions of Turkmenistan. It features a range of traditional crafts, including [[ceramics]], [[painting]]s, felt tapestries, leather items, and handmade paper, offering visitors an introduction to the country's artistic and cultural heritage.

=== Performing arts ===
[[File:Turkmen-Circus-Interior.JPG|thumb|[[Turkmen State Circus]]]]
Ashgabat's major theaters are:
*[[Alp Arslan]] [[Turkmen National Theatre of Youth|National Drama Theatre]]
*[[Magtymguly Musical and Drama Theater|Magtymguly National Musical and Drama Theatre]]
*[[Main Drama Theater (Ashgabat)|Main Drama Theatre named by Saparmurat Turkmenbashi]]
*[[Mollanepes Turkmen Drama Theater|Mollanepes Students Theatre]]
*
*[[Mukam Palace|Mukams Palace]]
*
*[[Alexander Pushkin|Pushkin]] [[Ashgabat Russian Drama Theatre named after Pushkin|State Russian Drama Theatre]]
*Theatre "Art Ist"
*[[Turkmen Puppet Theatre|Turkmen State Puppet Theatere]]
*[[Turkmen State Circus]]

Each of several former municipalities annexed by Ashgabat also features local a "house of culture" {{langx|tk|Medeniýet Öýi}}.

===Cinemas===
Ashgabat has six cinemas. In 2011, [[Ashgabat cinema|Aşgabat Cinema]], the first [[3D film|3D]] cinema in Turkmenistan, opened in Ashgabat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/15059.html|title=Ashgabat residents get 3D cinema – Turkmenistan.ru|website=www.turkmenistan.ru|access-date=August 2, 2017|archive-date=August 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803005434/http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/15059.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Watan and Turkmenistan theaters were reconstructed.<ref>[https://www.medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/category/3 Kinoteatrlar]</ref> Additional cinemas are located in the Berkarar Mall,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Berkarar |url=https://berkarar.com.tm/shop/139 |access-date=2025-01-17 |website=berkarar.com.tm}}</ref> the Gül Zemin Mall and Arkach Mall.

=== Libraries ===
[[State Library of Turkmenistan|The State Library of Turkmenistan]] was founded in 1892 and has undergone several name changes since then. In 1976, a new building was constructed for the library, and in 1992, it was granted national status. Since 2007, it has been part of the [[Turkmenistan Cultural Centre|State Culture Center of Turkmenistan]]. The library houses over 6 million items and actively develops electronic resources.<ref>[https://www.medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/organization/10 Türkmenistanyň Döwlet medeniýet merkeziniň Döwlet kitaphanasy ]</ref><ref>[https://dovletkitaphana.gov.tm/about-us]</ref>

The State Children's Library of Turkmenistan named after Bazar Amanov was established in 1935. It serves as the national repository of children's literature and a methodological center for children's and school libraries. The library includes specialized sections for book storage, cataloging, and services for different age groups, from preschool children to high school students, as well as an arts department. Since 2016, the library has been operating an integrated electronic library system.<ref>[https://www.medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/organization/7 Türkmenistanyň B.Amanow adyndaky Döwlet çagalar kitaphanasy]</ref> The library's collection consists of over 250,000 items.<ref>[https://chagalar-kitaphana.gov.tm/about.html Biz barada]</ref>

==Main sights==
[[File:Ahal Velayat Hippodrome - Flickr - Kerri-Jo (89).jpg|thumb|right|Horse racing at the [[International Equestrian Sports Complex]]]]
Ashgabat was home to the [[Arch of Neutrality]], a 75&nbsp;m (250&nbsp;ft) tall tripod crowned by a golden statue of late president [[Saparmurat Niyazov]] (also known as ''Turkmenbashy'', or head Turkmen). The 15&nbsp;m (50&nbsp;ft) high statue, which rotated in order to always face the sun during daylight hours, was removed on August 26, 2010, after Niyazov's successor, current President Berdimuhamedov, made clear earlier in the year that the statue was to be taken out of Ashgabat's Independence Square.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://centralasianewswire.com/Turkmenistan/Niyazovrsquos-influence-in-Turkmenistan-falls-with-golden-statuenbsp/viewstory.aspx?id=1522 |title=Niyazov's influence in Turkmenistan falls with golden statue |publisher=Centralasianewswire.com |access-date=2013-11-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716210548/http://centralasianewswire.com/Turkmenistan/Niyazovrsquos-influence-in-Turkmenistan-falls-with-golden-statuenbsp/viewstory.aspx?id=1522 |archive-date=July 16, 2011 |url-status=dead  }}</ref> In 2011 a [[Monument to the Constitution]] was built, its total height of 185&nbsp;m (607&nbsp;ft) makes it the second tallest structure in Turkmenistan.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiAnayasaAniti.aspx|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029200249/http://www.polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiAnayasaAniti.aspx|url-status=dead|title=The Monument Of The Constitution|archivedate=October 29, 2013}}</ref>

[[Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center]] was recognised by ''[[Guinness World Records]]'' as the world's tallest Ferris wheel in an enclosed space.<ref name="guinness">{{cite web|url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2012/5/turkmenistan-builds-largest-indoor-ferris-wheel-42157/|title=Turkmenistan builds largest indoor Ferris wheel|date=May 24, 2012|access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref> The [[Ashgabat Flagpole]] is the fifth tallest free–standing [[flagpole]] in the world, standing at {{Convert|436|ft|m|0|abbr=on}} tall. [[Fountain (Ashgabat)|The Ashgabat Fountain]] has the world's greatest number of fountain pools in a public place.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/5000/most-fountain-pools-in-a-public-place|title=Most fountain pools in a public place|date=June 2008 |access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ashgabat.gov.tm/images/books/guinness.pdf |title=Ashgabat in Guinness book |access-date=December 6, 2013 |archive-date=September 4, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904061153/http://ashgabat.gov.tm/images/books/guinness.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> Ashgabat also features [[Turkmenistan Tower]] which is the tallest tower in Turkmenistan, the decorative octagonal [[Rub el Hizb|Star of Oguzkhan]] is recognized as the world's largest architectural image of the star and entered in the ''Guinness World Records''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2011/11/largest-architectural-star-record-set-in-turkmenistan/|title=Largest architectural star record set in Turkmenistan|date=November 14, 2011|access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref>

===Palaces===
*[[Oguzhan Presidential Palace]], the official presidential headquarters.
*[[Ruhyýet Palace]], a place for official state events, forums, meetings, inaugurations.
*[[Wedding Palace (Ashgabat)|Wedding Palace]], a civil registry building.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiEvlendirmeNikahTorenleri.aspx|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130923011749/http://www.polimeks.com/eng/UstyapiEvlendirmeNikahTorenleri.aspx|url-status=dead|title=Weddenig palace|archivedate=September 23, 2013}}</ref>

===Parks and squares===
Ashgabat has many parks and open spaces, mainly established in the early years of the Independence and well maintained and expanded thereafter. The most important of these parks are: the Botanical Garden, Güneş, Turkmen-Turkish friendship, Independence. The oldest city park, [[Ashgabat (park)|Ashgabat]], was founded in 1887 and is colloquially known as First Park.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/17718.html|title=Monument-symbol of city and amusement park inaugurated in Ashgabat – Turkmenistan.ru|website=www.turkmenistan.ru|access-date=August 2, 2017|archive-date=August 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803005639/http://www.turkmenistan.ru/en/articles/17718.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the center of Ashgabat is the [[Inspiration Alley]], an art-park complex which is a favorite place for many locals. The amusement park [[World of Turkmenbashi Tales]] is a local equivalent to [[Disneyland]]. Squares: 10 Years of Turkmenistan Independence, Magtymguly, Eternal Flame, Zelili, Chyrchyk, [[Independence Square, Ashgabat|Garashsyzlyk]], March 8, Gerogly, Dolphin, 15 years of Independence, Ruhyýet, 10 ýyl Abadançylyk, Ylham and Tashkent.

The [[Ashgabat Botanical Garden]] was founded on 1 October 1929, and is the oldest botanical garden in [[Central Asia]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=7815 |title=Ашхабадскому ботсаду – 85 лет |access-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-date=June 11, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611013301/http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=7815 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://infoabad.com/priroda-i-yekologija-turkmenistana/ashhabadskii-botanicheskii-sad-stareishii-v-regione.html |title=Ашхабадский ботанический сад старейший в регионе |access-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200227071830/http://infoabad.com/priroda-i-yekologija-turkmenistana/ashhabadskii-botanicheskii-sad-stareishii-v-regione.html |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sng.today/ashkhabad/10813-v-ashhabade-nachali-rekonstruirovat-botanicheskij-sad.html|title=В Ашхабаде начали реконструировать Ботанический сад » "СНГ СЕГОДНЯ" - последние новости стран СНГ читайте на SNG.TODAY|website="СНГ СЕГОДНЯ" - последние новости стран СНГ читайте на SNG.TODAY}}</ref> It covers a territory of approximately 18 hectares, and contains a live exhibition of more than 500 different species of plants coming from various parts of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=17413 |title=Ашхабадский ботанический сад: день вчерашний и завтрашний |access-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-date=December 19, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191219151010/http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=17413 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/20842/botanicheskii-sad-v-ashhabade-budet-rekonstruirovan|title=Ботанический сад в Ашхабаде будет реконструирован &#124; Технологии}}</ref>

==== Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex ====
[[File:Eternal glory monument.jpg|thumb|[[Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex]]]]
[[Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex]] was opened in 2014 in remembrance of those killed in the [[Battle of Geok Tepe]] in 1881, during [[World War II]], and to commemorate of the victims of the [[1948 Ashgabat earthquake]]. It is located in the southwestern part of the city on Bekreve street.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.akorda.kz/ru/page/page_218581_poseshchenie-memorialnogo-kompleksa-|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141211095522/http://www.akorda.kz/ru/page/page_218581_poseshchenie-memorialnogo-kompleksa-|url-status=dead|title=Посещение Мемориального комплекса "Народная память"|archivedate=December 11, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/articles/40140.html|title=Президент Туркменистана принял участие в открытии мемориального комплекса и траурных мероприятиях Дня памяти – Интернет-газета Turkmenistan.Ru|website=www.turkmenistan.ru|access-date=August 2, 2017}}</ref>

==== Magtymguly Pyragy Cultural and Park Complex ====

In 2024, monuments dedicated to 24 foreign writers and poets were erected in the [[Magtymguly Pyragy]] Cultural and Park Complex in Ashgabat.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/78194/v-ashhabade-otkrylas-novaya-alleya-s-pamyatnikami-24-vydayushchimsya-pisatelyam-i-poetam|title=В Ашхабаде открылась новая Аллея с памятниками 24 выдающимся писателям и поэтам &#124; Общество}}</ref> These statues honor renowned figures such as [[Sayat-Nova]], [[Yanka Kupala]], [[Du Fu]], [[Honoré de Balzac]], [[Shota Rustaveli]], [[Johann Wolfgang von Goethe]], [[Sándor Petőfi]], [[Rabindranath Tagore]], [[Hafez Shirazi]], [[Dante Alighieri]], [[Yasunari Kawabata]], [[Kurmangazy Sagyrbayuly]], [[Chingiz Aitmatov]], [[Raja Ali Haji]], [[Adam Mickiewicz]], [[Mihai Eminescu]], [[Fyodor Dostoevsky]], [[Juan Ramón Jiménez|Juan Jiménez]], {{ill|Sayido Nasafiy|uz}}, [[Yunus Emre]], [[Hryhorii Skovoroda]], [[William Shakespeare]], [[Langston Hughes]] and [[Alisher Navoi]]. Each sculpture captures the essence and unique spirit of the artist's work.

===Mosques===
[[File:Inside the Azadi Mosque (5731113260).jpg|thumb|Interior of Artogrul Gazy Mosque]]
Major mosques in Ashgabat include:
* [[Türkmenbaşy Ruhy Mosque]]
* [[Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque|Ärtogrul Gazy Mosque]], a gift from Turkey, was inaugurated in 1998 and resembles the [[Sultan Ahmed Mosque|Blue Mosque]] in [[Istanbul]].
* Hezreti Osman Mosque in the 8th microdistrict
* [[Hezreti Omar Mosque]] in the Parahat 7 microdistrict<ref>{{cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/tm/blog/15947/parahat--7-yashayysh-toplumynda-hezreti-omar-metjidinin-achylysh-dabarasyndan-fotoreportazh|title="Parahat – 7" ýaşaýyş toplumynda "Hezreti Omar" metjidiniň açylyş dabarasyndan fotoreportaž|date=September 30, 2018|language=tk|publisher=Turkmenportal.com}}</ref>
* Azadi Mosque on Zarpçi street
* Martyrs ({{langx|tk|Şehitler}}) Mosque on Görogly street
* Shia Mosque near the Iranian Embassy

There are also several mosques in former towns and villages annexed by Ashgabat and thus now neighborhoods within the city limits.

===Churches===
Ashgabat has five operating Christian churches. Four are [[Russian Orthodox Church|Russian Orthodox]] churches:<ref name=roc>{{cite web|url=http://pravoslavie.tm/prikhody|title=Православие в Туркменистане, Приходы|language=ru|date=May 7, 2013|access-date=July 26, 2020|archive-date=June 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150616010432/http://www.pravoslavie.tm/prikhody|url-status=dead}}</ref>

* Saint [[Alexander Nevsky]] Church, founded in 1882 as parish church of the Russian military garrison, consecrated in 1900, located in the 30th Microdistrict ({{langx|ru|Храм святого благоверного великого князя Александра Невского}})
* Temple of Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Worker, located inside the Khitrovka Cemetery ({{langx|ru|храм святителя и Чудотворца Николая}})
* Temple of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, located near the Ruhnama School ({{langx|ru|храм Воскресения Христова}})
* Temple of the Holy Equals to Apostles Cyril and Methodius, located in Büzmeýin ({{langx|ru|Храм святых равноапостольных Кирилла и Мефодия}})

The [[Catholic Church|Roman Catholic]] [[Chapel of the Transfiguration, Ashgabat|Chapel of the Transfiguration]] operates on the grounds of the [[Apostolic nunciature]].

Other Christian denominations exist but as of 2019 only two were registered with the government and thus able to operate legally. The U.S. Department of State reported that Turkmen authorities "scrutinize or obstruct religious
groups attempting to purchase or lease buildings or land for religious purposes".<ref name=religfreedom>{{cite web|url=https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TURKMENISTAN-2019-INTERNATIONAL-RELIGIOUS-FREEDOM-REPORT.pdf|title=TURKMENISTAN 2019 INTERNATIONAL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM REPORT|date=May 2020|author=U.S. Department of State|publisher=U.S. Department of State}}</ref>

==Sports==
[[File:Ashgabat South.jpg|thumb|Ashgabat Olympic Complex]]
[[File:Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Olympic Stadium.jpg|thumb|[[Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Olympic Stadium|Olympic Stadium]] in Ashgabat]]
The main sporting venues in Ashgabat are the [[Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Olympic Stadium|Olympic Stadium]], [[Ashgabat Stadium]], the National Olympic ice rink, Sports complex for winter sports and the [[Ashgabat Watersports Complex]].

Ashgabat was chosen as the host city of the [[2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games]]. Between 2010 and 2017 an Olympic Village was built by the Turkish firm Polimeks south of the city center, at a cost of $5&nbsp;billion.<ref name=polimeks>Polimeks website, {{cite web|url=http://polimeks.com/en/buildingdetail/32/8/olympic-complex|title=Olympic Complex|access-date=July 25, 2020|archive-date=May 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526184338/http://polimeks.com/en/buildingdetail/32/8/olympic-complex/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=hronika>{{cite web|url=https://en.hronikatm.com/2016/12/5-billion-from-the-treasury-spent-on-the-olympic-village-in-ashgabat/|title=$5&nbsp;billion from the Treasury spent on the Olympic village in Ashgabat|date=December 8, 2016|publisher=Chronicles of Turkmenistan|access-date=July 25, 2020}}</ref>

In October 2017 a Jack Nicklaus Designs Signature 18-hole golf course opened in Ashgabat. It features 82 sand traps and covers 70 hectares.<ref name=golf1>{{cite web|url=http://tdh.gov.tm/news/articles.aspx&article16901&cat15|title=Президент Гурбангулы Бердымухамедов посетил столичный гольф-клуб|language=ru|date=February 24, 2019|publisher=Государственное информационное агентство Туркменистана (TDH) – Туркменистан сегодня}}</ref><ref name=golf2>{{cite web|url=https://www.construction.gov.tm/ru/node/560|title=Президент Туркменистана дал старт спортивной жизни Ашхабадского гольф-клуба|language=ru|date=October 17, 2017|publisher=МИНИСТЕРСТВО СТРОИТЕЛЬСТВА И АРХИТЕКТУРЫ ТУРКМЕНИСТАНА|access-date=August 3, 2020|archive-date=August 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808182229/https://www.construction.gov.tm/ru/node/560|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=golf3>{{cite web|url=http://turkmenistan.gov.tm/?id=14851|title=Ашхабадский гольф-клуб – новое слово в развитии отечественной спортивной и рекреационной индустрии|language=ru|date=October 17, 2017|work=Туркменистан: золотой век}}</ref><ref name=golf4>{{cite web|url=https://orient.tm/pervyj-golf-klub-v-turkmenistane-got/|title=Первый гольф-клуб в Туркменистане готовится принять гостей|date=October 16, 2017|language=ru|publisher=ORIENT-ИНФОРМАЦИОННОЕ АГЕНТСТВО "МЕДИА-ТУРКМЕН"}}</ref><ref name=golf5>{{cite web|url=https://www.golfchannel.com/article/doug-ferguson/nicklaus-designing-course-turkmenistan|title=Nicklaus designing course in ... Turkmenistan?|date=December 14, 2016|publisher=Golf Channel}}</ref><ref name=golf6>{{cite web|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/turkmenistan-golf-course-berdymukhammedov-nicklaus/28807861.html|title=Let Them Play Golf: Destitute Turkmen Get Designer Golf Course|date=October 21, 2017|publisher=RFE/RL}}</ref><ref name=golf7>{{cite web|url=https://golf.com/travel/jack-nicklaus-is-building-his-newest-golf-course-in-turkmenistan/|title=Jack Nicklaus Is Building His Newest Golf Course in Turkmenistan|date=December 14, 2016|publisher=EB GOLF MEDIA LLC}}</ref>

Ashgabat was the host of the [[2018 World Weightlifting Championships|2018 IWF World Weightlifting Championships]] and 2023 World [[Kurash]] Championships.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://bigasia.ru/v-ashhabade-startoval-chempionat-mira-po-kurashu/ | title=В Ашхабаде стартовал Чемпионат мира по курашу | date=November 23, 2023 }}</ref>

The city's professional football clubs [[Altyn Asyr FK]], [[FC Aşgabat]] and [[FK Köpetdag Aşgabat]] play in the [[Ýokary Liga]], the top league of Turkmenistan.

Ashgabat is home to several professional [[ice hockey]] teams. [[Galkan HC|Galkan]], Merdana, Nesil, Shir, Oguzkhan, Watanchy play in the [[Turkmenistan Championship|Turkmenistan Hockey Championship]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/72461/v-ashhabade-startoval-chempionat-turkmenistana-po-hokkeyu|title=В Ашхабаде стартовал чемпионат Туркменистана по хоккею &#124; Спорт}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/catalog/26796|title=Календарь матчей чемпионата Туркменистана-2024 по хоккею &#124; События}}</ref> Ashgabat annually hosts the President of the Turkmeinistan Cup ice hockey tournament.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sportcom.gov.tm/ru/item/832|title=В Ашхабаде стартует турнир по хоккею на Кубок Президента Туркменистана}}</ref> There are three ice arenas in Ashgabat: [[Winter Sports Complex Ashgabat]] (10,300 seats capacity), Ashgabat Ice Palace (1000 seats)<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.turkmenistan.ru/ru/node/17646В|title=Ашхабаде распахнул свои двери Ледовый дворец}}</ref> and Galkan Ice Palace (630 seats).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://turkmenportal.com/blog/2395|title=В Ашхабаде открыта еще одна ледовая арена &#124; Спорт}}</ref>

[[Inha Babakova]], 1999 World High Jump champion, was born in Ashgabat.
Born in Ashgabat weightlifter [[Polina Guryeva]] captured Turkmenistan's first Olympic medal at the [[2020 Summer Olympics]], taking silver in the women's 59&nbsp;kg.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/31896408/weightlifter-guryeva-wins-turkmenistan-1st-olympic-medal|title=Guryeva weightlifting medal Turkmenistan's first|date=July 27, 2021|website=ESPN.com}}</ref>

== International relations ==
=== Diplomatic missions===
The city hosts [[List of diplomatic missions in Turkmenistan|32 foreign embassies]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/articles/64 | title=Дипломатические Представительства Иностранных Государств И Международных Организаций, Аккредитованные В Туркменистане }}</ref> and serves as the headquarters for the [[Aral Sea#Institutional bodies|International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/articles/149 | title=В Туркменистане открылась штаб-квартира МФСА }}</ref> and United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://unrcca.unmissions.org/ru/%D0%B0%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%B0-%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D1%8C%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2|title=Адреса Представительств|date=October 13, 2016|website=РЦПДЦА}}</ref>

===Twin towns – sister cities===
{{See also|List of twin towns and sister cities in Asia#Turkmenistan|l1=List of twin towns and sister cities in Turkmenistan}}
Ashgabat is [[Sister city|twinned]] with:<ref name=twins>{{cite web|title=Kostroma is looking for a twin city in Turkmenistan|url=https://orient.tm/en/kostroma-is-looking-for-a-twin-city-in-turkmenistan/|website=orient.tm|publisher=Orient|date=2020-07-15|access-date=2020-11-12|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112184043/https://orient.tm/en/kostroma-is-looking-for-a-twin-city-in-turkmenistan/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=State visit of President of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Kazakhstan|url=https://www.mfa.gov.tm/en/news/245|website=mfa.gov.tm|publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan|date=2017-04-18|access-date=2020-11-12}}</ref>
{{div col|colwidth=20em}}
*{{flagicon|KAZ}} [[Aktau]], Kazakhstan
*{{flagicon|USA}} [[Albuquerque, New Mexico|Albuquerque]], United States (1990)
*{{flagicon|TUR}} [[Ankara]], Turkey (1994)
*{{flagicon|KAZ}} [[Astana]], Kazakhstan (2017)
*{{flagicon|GRC}} [[Athens]], Greece
*{{flagicon|MLI}} [[Bamako]], Mali (1974)
*{{flagicon|KGZ}} [[Bishkek]], Kyrgyzstan (2018)
*{{flagicon|TJK}} [[Dushanbe]], Tajikistan (2017)
*{{flagicon|UKR}} [[Kyiv]], Ukraine (2001)
*{{flagicon|CHN}} [[Lanzhou]], China (1992)
*{{flagicon|UZB}} [[Tashkent]], Uzbekistan (2017)
<!--Tokyo, Yerevan - not twinning-->
{{div col end}}

===Partner cities===
Ashgabat cooperates with:<ref name=twins/>
*{{flagicon|RUS}} [[Moscow]], Russia (1996) <ref>{{cite web | url=http://moscow.ru/capital_russia/mos_relations/partner/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302055051/http://moscow.ru/capital_russia/mos_relations/partner/ | archive-date=March 2, 2016 | title=Moscow.ru &#124; Партнёры Москвы }}</ref><ref name="web.archive.org">{{cite web | url=http://www.e-cis.info/page.php?id=22696 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609003132/http://www.e-cis.info/page.php?id=22696 | archive-date=June 9, 2016 | title=Интернет портал СНГ. 7.4. Соглашения между регионом государства – участника СНГ и регионом государства – участника СНГ (Российская Федерация) }}</ref>
*{{flagicon|RUS}} [[Chelyabinsk Oblast]], Russia (1997) <ref name="web.archive.org"/>
*{{flagicon|ARM}} [[Yerevan]], Armenia (2014)
*{{flagicon|JPN}} [[Tokyo]], Japan (2014)

== See also ==
*[[Ashgabat Trauma Center]]
* Boroughs and landmarks of Ashgabat
**[[Bagtyýarlyk District]]
**[[Berkararlyk District]]
**[[Bitarap Turkmenistan Avenue]] 
**[[Büzmeýin, Turkmenistan|Büzmeýin]] (Abadan)
**[[Büzmeýin District]]
**[[Galkynysh Square, Ashgabat]]
**[[Gypjak]]
**[[Independence Square, Ashgabat]]
**[[Kopetdag District]]
**[[Magtymguly Avenue]]
**[[Saparmurat Turkmenbashi Avenue|Saparmurat Turkmenbashy Avenue]]
* [[List of cities in Turkmenistan]]
* [https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/Ashgabat OpenStreetMap wiki article on geography of Ashgabat]
* [[Russian Turkestan]]

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

== References ==
{{reflist}}

===Sources===
*Е. М. Поспелов (Ye. M. Pospelov). "Имена городов: вчера и сегодня (1917–1992). Топонимический словарь." (''City Names: Yesterday and Today (1917–1992). Toponymic Dictionary.'') Москва, "Русские словари", 1993.

==External links==
{{Commons category|Aşgabat}}
{{Wikivoyage|Ashgabat}}
* {{official website|http://ashgabat.gov.tm/}}

{{List of Asian capitals by region}}
{{Cities of Turkmenistan}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Ashgabat| ]]
[[Category:Subdivisions of Turkmenistan]]
[[Category:Transcaspian Oblast]]
[[Category:Populated places along the Silk Road]]
[[Category:Capitals in Asia]]
[[Category:Populated places destroyed by earthquakes]]
[[Category:1st-millennium BC establishments]]
[[Category:Populated places established in the 1st millennium BC]]
[[Category:1881 establishments in Asia]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1881]]