The poetic soul of the Kazakh land -
Cultural and literary attractions of Almaty -
The monument to Mukagali Makatayev is one of the most touching and inspiring places in Almaty, dedicated to the great poet, whose poems have become a symbol of love for the Motherland, life and man. It is located in a quiet park named after Mukagali Makatayev on Makatayev Street, where the air is filled with a special peace, and poetry is felt in every detail. Here, among the greenery, the spirit of Mukagali, the man whose word touched the hearts of millions, seems to come alive.
This monument is not just a bronze figure, but a symbol of the human soul, inspiration and light, which the poet left to his descendants.
The history of the monument's creation
The monument to Mukagali Makatayev was opened in Almaty in 2002, to mark the 71st anniversary of the poet's birth. The initiator of the monument's installation was the Writers' Union of Kazakhstan and the city administration. It was a long–awaited project, because Mukagali's name has long been a part of the national consciousness - his poems were taught in schools, quoted in films and songs, and his poetry was heard at every poetry evening.
The authors of the monument are T.E. Yeraliev, V. I. Sidorov, the sculptor is K.K. Satybaldin, the designer is M.E. Yerkinov. They managed to convey in bronze not only the external similarity, but also the inner energy of the poet – the very strength of spirit, lyricism and sadness with which Mukagali looked at the world.
The image and architecture of the monument
The monument is made of bronze and is mounted on a granite pedestal. Mukagali is depicted sitting in thought, with a slight smile and a book in his hand. His gaze is fixed into the distance, as if he continues to reflect on the fate of a person, about time, about his Homeland.
The sculptor carefully worked out every detail: the soft lines of the face, the slight turn of the body, the cloak falling in folds. All this gives the figure a feeling of a living presence. It seems that a little more – and the poet will raise his eyes to pronounce new lines.
The monument is surrounded by a beautiful park where you can relax and spend time with friends, sit on a bench and be alone. This makes the place especially atmospheric – you can not only look at it, but also be there, feeling connected with its poetry.
The area around the monument is paved with tiles, firs and chestnuts are planted, benches are installed. Literary evenings, flash mobs, and filming of documentaries and feature films often take place here.
About the poet and his legacy
Mukagali Makatayev (1931-1976) was an outstanding Kazakh poet, translator, journalist and public figure. He was born in the village of Karasaz, Almaty region, into a simple peasant family. His life was short, but incredibly bright.
Makatayev left a huge literary legacy – more than ten poetry collections, including "Fariza", "Akynmyn men", "Rayymbek! Rayymbek!". His poems are simple and sincere, filled with deep reflections on love, fate and spiritual values.
He translated the works of Shakespeare, Byron, Dante and Walt Whitman into Kazakh, presenting the Kazakh reader with world classics. Many modern poets and musicians consider Mukagali their spiritual teacher.
After the poet's death in 1976, his work experienced a rebirth: complete collections of poetry were published, plays were staged, films were shot, and museums were opened. Today, streets, schools and libraries all over Kazakhstan bear the name of Mukagali Makatayev.
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How to get there and visit
The monument to Mukagali Makatayev is located in the center of Almaty, in the park of the same name at Makatayev Street, corner of Zheltoksan Street, Almaly district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'46"N 76°56'17"E
The destination can be reached by bus routes. № 20, 32, 40, 63, 92, 113, 119, as well as using private transport or taxi services.
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Legend and atmosphere
There is a touching legend: it is said that on quiet evenings, when the wind is stirring the leaves of the trees, you can hear the soft sound of poetry – as if Mukagali himself is whispering his lines in the language of the soul and the wind.
Locals believe that if you stand at the monument and read aloud one of the poet's poems about love or fidelity, the poet will hear and inspiration will settle in your heart.
Some poets and musicians come to this place specially before creative evenings to "ask for the blessing of Mukagali." And almost everyone says the same thing – you always leave here with a light heart.
A touch of poetry
The monument to Mukagali Makatayev is not just a monument. This is a place where poetry becomes a part of life. Here you feel how the word comes to life, how the bronze breathes warmth, and you realize that poets really don't die – they live in their poems and in the hearts of people.
For tourists, this is one of the most soulful sights of Almaty. Here you can see how deep and humane the Kazakh spirit was, feel the power of the word and the beauty of the language.
This monument is a reminder that art can survive time, and sincerity always remains eternal.
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