Historical Museum in Bishkek to open on Nov. 20

Bishkek, Nov. 18, 2021 . / Kabar / . The official opening of the Kyrgyz State History Museum in Bishkek will be held on Nov. 20.

The press service of Kyrgyzstan’s Culture Ministry reported that for the first ten days - until Nov. 30 - visitors will be able to visit the museum for free.

"Taking into account the epidemiological situation in the country, wearing masks and compliance with sanitary norms is mandatory when visiting the museum. Before entering the museum, citizens can familiarize with the order of the visit and the requirements for the tour,” the report said.

The Kyrgyz State History Museum was closed for renovation on May 25, 2016. The state budget allocated KGS 1.5 billion for the renovation. In addition, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) financed $15 million for the exterior of the building.

In May 2018, scandal emerged after publishing in social networks an estimate prices for the expositions. Thus, it was reported that wooden horses were purchased for EUR 14 thousand, and the furniture for the dressing room - EUR 142 thousand.

The State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan launched an investigation and the General Prosecutor's Office opened a criminal case for illegal use of budgetary funds during the repair and purchase of equipment for the museum building. Among the accused was former Prime Minister Sapar Isakov.