In August, Ulaanbaatar Mayor S.Batbold  issued a decree to develop a “car-free zone” on what was  Minister B.Tserendorj Street. As a part of the project, construction of an underground shopping complex has begun with fences being erected in the area known locally as  Beatles Square – this is located front of State Department Store just beyond Peace Avenue. However, UB residents have protested against plans for a commercial development in the area. Because of the local outcry, Mayor S.Batbold suspended his decree in April.

Although work on the underground complex has stopped – the fences around Beatles Square still remain. City residents are now growing concerned: what remains beyond the fence? Are the ‘Fab Four’ still undamaged?

The monument, erected in 2008 with donations from politicians, businessmen and artists, marks the site where Mongolians gathered to talk about banned Western pop music in the days before democracy and freedom of expression came to Mongolia. For an older generation who lived during  those years, Beatles Square represents far more than a quirky tourist attraction.