Standing in the heart of Tajikistan's capital of Dushanbe, the monument of Ismoil Somoni is a must-visit and a landmark of the vibrant city. Erected in 1999, the more than 25-meter-high statue was erected to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the state of the Samanids (819-999). Ismoil Somoni, who was the founder of the state, is widely recognized as a national hero of the country. His statue can be found in many towns and cities across Tajikistan.