Bronze symbol of eternal love in the very center of the city -
A touching story of youth and devotion -
The Lovers' Monument, also widely known as «Baqytym menıñ» (My Happiness), is one of the most elegant and discussed sculptures in Astana. Located in the park of the same name on the left bank, this monument was officially opened on June 10, 2005, with the participation of the country's president.
The author of the composition is the famous Kazakh sculptor Yerbolat Tolepbay, who managed to capture a fleeting moment of sincere feeling in metal. The sculpture immediately became a cult place for city residents and a mandatory stop for all couples in love and those strolling along Nurzhol Boulevard.
The composition represents life-sized figures of a young man and a girl who seem to have paused during a walk along the alley. A fragile girl in a light dress that emphasizes her youth, and a protective young man gently holding his companion by the waist, create an image of purity and mutual support. The monument is installed on a small pedestal, which creates an effect of presence: it seems as if the couple is simply walking alongside other park visitors.
For the capital, this monument has become not just a landscape decoration, but a true symbol of family values and the continuity of generations. Every day, dozens of newlyweds come to the «My Happiness» monument to take their first family photos against the backdrop of the capital's main architectural masterpieces.
After visiting the monument, you can take a walk to Round Square and have lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants.
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How to get there and visit -
The Lovers' Monument (My Happiness) is located in Lovers' Park (Zhastar Sayabagy) on Nurzhol Boulevard, between Khan Shatyr Shopping Mall and Round Square (Dongelek Alan), Yesil district, Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan.
You can reach the monument by various public transport routes. Buses No. 30, 21, 309, 10, 70, 300, 308, 29, 35, 305, 12, 312, 28, 56, or 29A are suitable.
The «Round Square» stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the cascading fountains.
Also, for convenience, use a private car or taxi services via a special mobile application.
Entrance: Free.
Opening hours: 24/7. The best time for viewing is during daylight hours for a detailed study of the sculpture's plastic forms, or in the evening when the park is bathed in the soft light of lamps.
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Information
The Lovers' Monument is cast from high-quality bronze. Sculptor Yerbolat Tolepbay sought to move away from monumental pathos, emphasizing humanity and emotional closeness. Interestingly, in 2014, the sculpture was coated with copper paint, giving it a new shade, and in 2016, the work found itself at the center of heated public discussions.
Some critics assigned the monument the status of «the most erotic» in Central Asia. The reason was the delicate execution of the Kazakh beauty's dress: the masterfully conveyed effect of wet or transparent fabric emphasizes the forms of the figure, which caused an ambiguous reaction among part of the conservative society.
Despite the controversy and even attempts by activists to «cover up» the nakedness with scarves, the sculpture remains an important artistic object embodying freedom and a modern view of art.
A cozy space with paved paths and decorative plantings is organized around the sculpture. In the immediate vicinity of «My Happiness» are the famous thematic benches – the «First Kiss Bench» and the «Reconciliation Bench». This entire ensemble creates a single conceptual zone within the 14-hectare territory, where more than 3,000 trees are planted.
Detailed description of the object
• Figure of the girl: The embodiment of tenderness and grace. Her flying dress symbolizes the lightness and spirituality of first love. The fine detailing creates the feeling that the fabric is swaying in the wind.
• Figure of the youth: A symbol of reliability and protection. He carefully holds his companion; his pose expresses readiness to go through any life obstacles together.
• Pedestal: The low base of the monument allows visitors to feel on the same level as the heroes. This emphasizes the idea that love is a feeling accessible to everyone and uniting all people.
• Traditions and signs: Citizens have a tradition – for a marriage to be long and happy, newlyweds should touch the bronze hands of the couple in love together. It is believed that this brings harmony to the home and promises eternal fidelity.
Architecture
The artistic solution of the monument contrasts with the large-scale and strict forms of the surrounding government buildings and business centers. The bronze plastic adds an element of softness to the «glass» appearance of the left bank.
The location of the sculpture is extremely well-chosen: behind the backs of the lovers, a majestic perspective opens onto «Khan Shatyr», and on the other side – onto the Astana Opera Theater. This creates a unique visual dialogue between the classical art of sculpture and the avant-garde architecture of the metropolis.
Legend and Conclusion
It is said that Yerbolat Tolepbay created this monument, inspired by ancient Kazakh legends of eternal love.
Legend has it that those who meet their destiny at this monument will never know the bitterness of parting.
For modern Astana, the «My Happiness» sculpture has become a point of attraction where time slows down. This place serves as a reminder that behind the glitter of skyscrapers and the noise of the metropolis, there are always simple human stories and feelings. Visiting the monument is an opportunity to take a moment's break from the hustle and bustle and remember what matters most.
Interesting landmarks nearby:
• Bayterek Monument;
• Abu Nasir Al-Farabi Mosque;
• Korme Exhibition Center;
• KazMunayGas Building;
• Asia Park Mall.
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