Ala-Too Square

was placed in the square's center.cite web
last = Aslanbekova
first = Aisha
title = Replacement of Lenin Statue Heats Up New Political Season in Kyrgyzstan
publisher = Central Asia Caucasus Institute Analyst
date = September 10, 2003
url = http://www.cacianalyst.org/?q=node/1499
accessdate = 2008-08-22] The statue of Lenin was moved in 2003 to a smaller square in the city, and a new statue called "Erkindik" (Freedom) was installed in its place.

The square serves as a place for state events and celebrations. In 2008 it was the site of a memorial ceremony for world-renowned Kyrgyz writer Chinghiz Aitmatov. [cite web
title = Central Asia: Mourners In Kyrgyz Capital Bid Farewell To Literary 'Giant' Aitmatov
publisher = Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
date = June 14, 2008
url = http://rfe.rferl.org/featuresarticle/2008/6/989B397C-C22A-449C-AEEB-F10C7BC2967D.html
accessdate = 2008-08-22]

On March 24, 2005, the square was the site of the largest anti-government protest during the Tulip Revolution. After several weeks of unrest throughout the country, over 15,000 people gathered early in the afternoon to protest the results of the 2005 parliamentary elections. Two people were killed and over 100 wounded when the protesters clashed with government officials. [cite web
title = Akayev Administration Collapses in Kyrgyzstan, Sending Tremors Across Central Asia
publisher = Eurasianet
date = March 24, 2005
url = http://www.eurasianet.org/departments/civilsociety/articles/eav032405.shtml
accessdate = 2008-08-22] The protesters soon took control of the square, however, then stormed the White House, forcing Askar Akayev, Kyrgyzstan's first president, to flee the country and later resign from office.

References