Old Square and Government House, Bishkek

Old Square is a prominent public square located in the heart of Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Its construction began in 1936 to commemorate the 19th anniversary of the October Revolution, and despite the challenges posed by the Great Patriotic War, the square was finally completed in 1954.

One of the notable structures in Old Square is the Government House, which was constructed in 1957. This historic building served as the meeting place for the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kirghizia and the Council of Ministers of the Kyrgyz SSR. With its grand architecture adorned with classic columns, the Government House stands as an impressive landmark in Bishkek. However, it is regrettable that the building is not accessible to the public, and its interior remains closed to visitors.

The square underwent a significant reconstruction project in 1964, led by renowned Soviet architect Yevgeny Pisarskoi. This endeavor aimed to revitalize and improve the square's overall appearance and functionality. By 1970, the square had been enriched with the addition of a city theater, further enhancing its cultural significance and providing a venue for various performances and events.

During the Soviet era, Old Square played a crucial role in hosting military parades and political rallies, symbolizing the power and achievements of the Soviet Union. However, with the opening of Ala-Too Square in 1984, which became the new central square of the city, Old Square gradually diminished in importance and saw reduced usage over the years.

In June 2016, a group of private investors took the initiative to renovate Old Square as a gift to the city of Bishkek. This project aimed to restore the square's historical and cultural value, creating an attractive and revitalized public space for residents and visitors to enjoy.