Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital, is home to a remarkable collection of Soviet-era modernist architecture, blending futuristic designs with traditional Uzbek elements. Notable structures include the UFO-inspired State Circus, the turquoise-domed Chorsu Bazaar, and the Sun Heliocomplex near Parkent, a solar research facility from 1987. These buildings are part of a UNESCO World Heritage nomination submitted by the Art and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF), aiming to preserve Tashkent’s unique architectural heritage.
The city’s architectural evolution accelerated after a devastating earthquake in 1966, leading to a masterplan that introduced wide avenues and grand, orientalist structures. Architects from Moscow designed buildings that combined modernist techniques with ornamental details inspired by the Timurid dynasty. This fusion created a distinctive architectural language that continues to define Tashkent’s skyline.
Preservation efforts gained momentum following the 2018 demolition of the House of Cinema, a beloved cylindrical concrete movie theatre. The loss prompted public outcry and spurred initiatives to protect other significant buildings. The ACDF has since organized exhibitions, published scholarly works, and showcased Tashkent’s architecture at the Venice Architecture Biennale to raise global awareness.
As urban development pressures mount, the nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status underscores the importance of safeguarding Tashkent’s architectural legacy. These efforts not only celebrate the city’s unique design but also highlight the need for a balanced approach to modernization that respects historical and cultural heritage.
