The Gülistan Döwlet Söwda Merkezi, in the center of Ashgabat, is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the country.
Known as the "Russian Bazaar" it was built in 1972 in the less brutalist Soviet Modernist style, it remains a popular place for both locals and travellers alike, both visiting for different reasons.
The original market building was modernised in 2001 with updated fixtures and facilities such as sectioned shops and eateries. Then in 2007 as is the case in Ashgabat in general it was completely cladded in white marble.
The roof sits higher than the building walls provideing much need shade and also ventilation.
Weirdly told by our guide that photography may be shunned by the vendors and shoppers alike as they "do not like having their photo taken"
Seriously? that is the problem in generalisation, it wasn't a problem was it, otherwise you would be looking at a blank page here right?
It was a wonderful cacophony of sounds and smells, sellers calling out prices, the aroma of spices and fresh foods wafting through the air.
None of the fuckers would smile though
Beauty in a sea of blandness
A nice pair
And an apple, did not expect to see a "franchise" here. Though c'mon it is probably snide gear for sale.
More fruit, every August Turkmenistan has the Gawun Bayramy festival, a national holiday in homage to the wonderful watermelon. IMHO a nice pair of melons should be honoured on a more frequent basis.
This is one of the quietest markets I have ever visited, it was lacking the hub bub and grittiness that other Central Asian markets all seem to have; no jostling no pushing and shoving. This was more like a stroll around Lidl
Look how clean and shiny the floor is
What looks like a giant wisdom tooth
is in fact an abstract sculpture, called the “bowl of gazelles” , the sculpture is actually a cover for a set of air ducts.
The market opens daily and is one of the few places in Ashgabat where haggling is expected
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