Bishkek, Sept. 9, 2026 /Kabar/. Construction of the Aitmatov Aalamy Memorial Complex in Sheker village, the birthplace of renowned Kyrgyz writer Chyngyz Aitmatov, is 95 percent complete, with the facility scheduled to open on September 12.
The opening ceremony is expected to be attended by President Sadyr Zhaparov.
The large-scale cultural project is designed to preserve and promote Aitmatov’s spiritual and creative legacy and introduce his works and ideas to younger generations. It is also expected to become a new cultural tourism destination in Talas Oblast.
According to Nurlanbek Umarov, Akim of Talas Oblast’s Aitmatov District, the project is being implemented in accordance with a presidential directive, with the main construction works carried out in 2026.
Construction of the complex was initially launched in 2012 but was later suspended due to corruption. The project was subsequently revised, and work resumed after the updated project was developed last year.
To date, around 200 million soms ($2.3 million) have been allocated from the republican budget for the project, according to local authorities.
“The main objective of the project is to preserve and promote the spiritual and creative heritage of Chyngyz Aitmatov and pass it on to the younger generation. The complex will also contribute to the development of cultural tourism in Talas Oblast,” Umarov said.
The complex covers 15 hectares and will include a museum, library, modern cinema, coffee shop and guest house for visitors.
Sculptures of Chyngyz Aitmatov and characters from his literary works have been installed across the territory. Landscaping and improvement works are also being completed ahead of the opening.
The location of the complex carries particular significance. Sheker village is the birthplace of Chyngyz Aitmatov, making the site closely connected to the writer’s life and creative heritage.
The complex is envisioned as a cultural and educational space where visitors will be able to learn about Aitmatov’s life, explore his literary works and become familiar with the characters and ideas that shaped his creative world.
The name “Aitmatov Aalamy” translated as “Aitmatov’s Universe” or “The World of Aitmatov,” reflects the breadth of the writer’s literary and philosophical legacy. His works address universal themes including human dignity, morality, nature, memory, responsibility and the relationship between generations.
Aitmatov is one of the most internationally recognized figures of Kyrgyz literature. His works have been translated into numerous languages and published around the world, contributing to the international recognition of Kyrgyz culture and literature.
The new complex is expected to become one of the major historical and cultural attractions in Talas Oblast and to strengthen to strengthen the cultural and tourism infrastructure of the oblast and provide a permanent space dedicated to the writer’s life and work.
For Sheker, the project also represents an effort to turn the birthplace of one of Kyrgyzstan’s most internationally recognized writers into a destination for visitors interested in the country’s literary and cultural heritage.
With construction now nearing completion, final preparations are underway for the September 12 opening.
