The romantic heart of the left bank and a symbol of family values -
A cozy green corner surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers -
Lovers' Park (Gashyktar Sayabagy), also known as «Zhastar Sayabagy» (Youth Park), is one of the most soulful landmarks in Astana. The grand opening of the park took place on July 6, 2005, and was timed to coincide with Capital City Day.
This space of 14 hectares has become a favorite place for citizens to stroll, hold wedding photo sessions, and go on romantic dates. The concept of the park is deeply symbolic: it embodies love, friendship, loyalty, and the strength of the marriage union. The «Lovers» monument (My Happiness) is installed in the park.
A special feature of «Zhastar Sayabagy» is its landscape design. All lawns and flower beds here are planned and planted strictly according to German technology, which ensures an impeccable look for the park throughout the season. More than 3,000 trees grow on the territory, including spruce, pine, birch, and poplar, as well as elms and maples, which are rare for this area. The first president of Kazakhstan also contributed to the greenery by planting a personal tree here.
The park is harmoniously integrated into the architectural ensemble of the new center. Located between Dongelek Square (Round Square) and Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, it serves as a natural continuation of Nurzhol Boulevard, offering visitors a rest in the shade of trees after walking along busy avenues.
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How to get there and visit -
Lovers' Park is located in the very center of the left bank of Astana, on Nurzhol Boulevard, opposite the Khan Shatyr shopping mall and right behind the headquarters of the KazMunayGas company.
GPS coordinates: 51°07'54"N 71°24'33"E
You can reach the park by various city buses. Routes No. 56, 32, 10, 50, 26, 46, 29, or 29A are suitable. It is most convenient to get off at the «Khan Shatyr» stop, which is in the immediate vicinity of the entrance.
Also, for a comfortable trip to the park, use a private car or taxi services via a special mobile application.
Entrance: Free.
Opening hours: The park is open 24/7, allowing you to enjoy evening walks under the light of decorative lamps and fountain illumination.
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Information
Park «Ғашықтар» (Lovers) – it is not just a green zone, but a full-fledged space with a developed infrastructure for family and active recreation. In addition to shady alleys, there are modern children's playgrounds located at the exit of the park, making it convenient for visiting with children of any age.
Original small architectural forms and art objects are placed along the paths. Visitors often stop for photos at the large «I LOVE ASTANA» sign or near the decorative white jug. The engineering equipment of the park includes automatic irrigation systems and a well-thought-out lighting system that turns the park into a fairy-tale place at night.
Detailed description of the object
• «Baqytym menıñ» (My Happiness) is installed in the park: A bronze monument to a couple in love, created by architect Yerbolat Tolepbay. The figures of a young man and a fragile girl in a light dress convey tenderness and trembling feelings. This statue is considered a symbol of eternal love, and it gave the name to the entire park.
• Lovers' Fountain: A unique structure in the center of the park, created from metal constructions according to the design of the Austrian Princess Gabriela von Habsburg. The composition of 16 horseshoes symbolizes the run of four horses to the four corners of the world, emphasizing the openness of Kazakhstan to the world. The horseshoes are mounted on a symbolic wheel, signifying the unity of nations.
• Monument «Altyn jürek» (Golden Heart): A ten-meter bronze heart on a steel pedestal, made by Chinese masters. The monument symbolizes mercy, compassion, and support for children in need of help.
• Thematic benches: Special «First Kiss Bench» and «Reconciliation Bench» are installed in the park. The latter has a special concave shape, thanks to which people sitting on the edges involuntarily slide toward the center, finding themselves closer to each other.
Architecture
The architectural style of the park can be characterized as modern landscape minimalism. The geometry of alleys and paths is clearly calibrated, creating convenient routes for pedestrians. An important detail is the forged decor elements and the metal structures of the fountain, which bring high-tech elements into the natural environment.
Visually, the park is connected to the surrounding architectural giants: through its alleys, panoramic views open onto the cone of «Khan Shatyr» and the classical columns of the «Astana Opera» theater, creating a unique urban landscape.
Legend and Conclusion
Among the residents of Astana, there is a belief that if a couple in love spends an evening in this park and looks at the streams of the central fountain together, their union will be protected from adversity.
It is believed that the «Reconciliation Bench» has miraculous power: even the most serious quarrel is forgotten as soon as you sit on it together.
«Zhastar Sayabagy» – is a place where the history of the city meets the personal stories of thousands of people. Here, first dates are made, marriage proposals are offered, and people simply enjoy life. A visit to this park allows you to feel the warm and bright side of the modern capital.
Interesting landmarks nearby:
• Bayterek Monument;
• Abu Nasir Al-Farabi Mosque;
• Astana Opera;
• Korme Exhibition Center;
• KazMunayGas Building;
• Asia Park Mall.
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