The Independence Square (originally laid out in the second half of the 19th century as Cathedral Square, then after Great October Revolution renamed into Lenin Square) lies in the town’s centre. It is there where the Monument of Independence and the Arc of Good Hopes and Good Wishes symbolizing good will of independent Uzbekistan to develop itself in line with the rest of progressive humankind are located.
It is there in the Square where country’s main holiday – Independence Day (1st September) is celebrated. The Square in encircled by office buildings: Cabinet of Ministers, Senate (upper house of Parliament) as well as original fountains and a park where "eternal flame" is alight in memory of those who lost their lives for Freedom and Independence of their Motherland, who died in the fields of the Second World War of 1941 - 1945 and other hostilities.
Nearby the Square is a peculiar palace built of burnt bricks by Grand Duke of Russia Nicolas Romanov, uncle of the Russia’s last Tsar at the end of the 19th century.
