Grand architecture aims to reinforce national identity, but the human reality is different. The Turkmen capital Ashgabat stretches out in an expanse of opulent white marble palaces, government buildings, golden domes and carefully manicured parks.

Grand architecture aims to reinforce national identity, but the human reality is different. The Turkmen capital Ashgabat stretches out in an expanse of opulent white marble palaces, government buildings, golden domes and carefully manicured parks.