Outstanding Personalities and Travelers of Kazakhstan -
Cultural and Social Life of Almaty -
The Shokan Valikhanov Square is one of the oldest and most recognizable places in Almaty. Situated in the heart of the city, on the square opposite the Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan, it is an important cultural and historical site. More than just a green space, it is a place steeped in historical memory, directly linked to the name of the great Kazakh educator, traveler, scholar, and ethnographer, whose name is known far beyond Kazakhstan's borders.
The square has become not just a recreation area but also a symbol of respect for the national intellectual elite. A monument to Shokan Valikhanov, a bronze sculpture by sculptor and architect E. Valikhanov, depicting a young scholar in a long, knee-length black cloak, standing at full height in a pensive pose with his left hand at his chin, in his right hand, Shokan holds a book or notebook. This monument has become one of Almaty's cultural landmarks and often serves as a venue for meetings, photo sessions, and informal excursions.
Chokan Valikhanov, who lived in the 19th century, was a truly Renaissance figure – the first Kazakh scholar accepted into the Imperial Russian Geographical Society, a man who, disguised as a merchant, undertook a perilous journey to Kashgar and left behind invaluable works on the history and culture of the peoples of Central Asia.
History
The square was founded in the mid-20th century and named in honor of Chokan Chingisovich Valikhanov, an outstanding son of the Kazakh people who made an enormous contribution to the study of the history, ethnography, and culture of Central Asia. From the very beginning, it was conceived as a place where the memory of the great explorer would be combined with natural beauty and architectural harmony. Over the years, it has hosted celebratory events and gatherings of schoolchildren and students dedicated to science, education, and the history of Kazakhstan.
Scientists, writers, and public figures attended the grand opening of the square, remarking that it was Valikhanov who was one of the first Kazakhs to combine Eastern wisdom with a European scientific approach. In 1969, a monument to Shokan Valikhanov was erected in the center of the square—a bronze figure symbolizing the power of thought and spiritual striving for knowledge.
Architecture and Landscaping
The square is designed in the classic style of Soviet landscape design, while retaining a distinctive Kazakh character. The central area is occupied by stone-paved alleys and wide paths leading to the monument to Valikhanov. Spruce, maple, linden, and rare oak trees grow along them, creating a natural coolness and comfort. Two fountains, operating in the summer, are located on either side of the monument.
Particular attention has been paid to the decorative design: flowerbeds with seasonal flowers, carved benches, and lanterns stylized as antique ones, lend the place an atmosphere of intelligence and tranquility. Preserved buildings from the pre-war and post-war eras remain near the square, evoking the spirit of old Almaty. In the evening, the space is filled with soft light, and the square becomes a favorite strolling spot for locals and tourists.
Chokan Valikhanov – Personality and Legacy
Chokan (Shokan) Chingisovich Valikhanov (1835–1865) was an outstanding scholar, ethnographer, traveler, historian, and artist. He was born into a family descended from khans in the Kushmurun region and studied at the Omsk Cadet Corps, where he demonstrated a brilliant talent for science and languages. He spoke several languages and studied geography, ethnography, history, literature, and philosophy.
During his expeditions, Valikhanov visited the Tien Shan, Semirechye, Kashgar, and other remote regions of Central Asia, where he collected unique information about the culture, customs, and beliefs of the peoples. His works, such as "Essays on Dzungaria," "Journey to Kashgaria," and "Notes on the Kirghiz," have become invaluable sources for scholarship.
Chokhan Valikhanov was also one of the first to strive to showcase the cultural richness and spiritual depth of the Kazakh people to the world. He advocated education, enlightenment, and friendship among peoples. Despite his short life, having lived only 30 years, Valikhanov left behind a vast scientific and cultural legacy.
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How to get there and visit -
The Chokan Valikhanov Square is located in Almaty on Shevchenko Street, corner of Valikhanov Street, in the square in front of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, between Pushkin Street and Kunayev Street, Medeu District, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°14'50"N 76°57'10"E
The Chokan Valikhanov Square is easily accessible by bus #5, 5A, 5B, 29, 29P, 48, 65, 66, 120, 121, 141 (along Dostyk Avenue to Shevchenko Street), #12 (to the Kazakhstan Hotel), #112 (along Kunayev Street to Shevchenko Street), and trolleybus #11, 19, or 25 (to Shevchenko Street). The nearest metro station is Abaya, about 800 meters walk from the building. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car.
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Legend
There's a beautiful legend associated with the Chokan Valikhanov Square. When workers were erecting a monument to Valikhanov in 1969, a sudden, violent thunderstorm erupted. Thunder and lightning illuminated the figure of the scientist, covered in a shroud. At the same moment as the thunderclap, lightning flashed over the square and people saw a soft glow emanating from beneath the shroud. Afterward, the storm suddenly subsided, and a double rainbow appeared over the square. Old-timers said this was a sign as if the spirit of Chokan himself had blessed the place where his memory was immortalized.
Since then, the square has been considered to hold a special energy and inspiration for those who seek knowledge and strive for discovery. They say that if you sit quietly by the monument and reflect on your own path, you can find the answer to an important life question after all, even in life, Valikhanov was a conduit for the light of reason and truth.
Today, the Chokan Valikhanov Square is not only a place of relaxation but also a symbol of national pride and respect for science. It often hosts cultural and educational events, literary readings, exhibitions, and flash mobs dedicated to Kazakhstan's history. For many Almaty residents, this place is a focal point where they can reflect on the past and be inspired by the example of the great scientist.
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