Lenin to the Back

During my visit to Bishkek, I encountered the imposing statue of Vladimir Lenin, a remnant of the city’s Soviet past. Originally unveiled in 1984, this statue once dominated Ala-Too Square, symbolizing the era’s ideological prominence. However, in 2003, as Kyrgyzstan embraced its independence, the statue was relocated to a more discreet position behind the State Historical Museum. This move reflected the nation’s shift towards redefining its identity while still acknowledging its historical roots. Observing the statue in its current, less conspicuous setting offered a poignant insight into the complex layers of Bishkek’s evolving narrative.   #springwander #bishkek