Palace of Unity, Dushanbe

The Palace of Unity, also called Kohi Vahdat, was for many years a major concert and conference hall. Built in the late Soviet period, it hosted music events, government meetings, and international conferences. Its name, “Vahdat,” means “unity” in Tajik and reflects its role in public celebrations and official ceremonies.

The building had a symmetrical design with tall entrance columns and wide steps leading to the main doors. Inside was a large hall with fixed seating and a deep stage for concerts and official events. As part of a redevelopment plan that replaced several Soviet-era buildings, the aging palace was scheduled for demolition, and by 2024 the site was being prepared for a new, larger complex in a modern style.

The palace was also the scene of serious security incidents. On 14 November 2007, a homemade explosive device detonated in the rear yard. A 77-year-old man was killed after picking up a plastic bag that contained the device. The blast shattered windows and occurred shortly before an international conference was due to begin. In September 2010, a smaller bomb exploded outside during Fashion Week, causing minor damage but no deaths.