Living image of the first cosmonaut on the streets of Almaty -
Modern monuments and art objects of the city of Almaty -
The sculpture "Yuri Gagarin on a bench" is one of the most original and kind works of urban sculpture in Almaty. This art object is dedicated to the first cosmonaut of the Earth, Yuri Alekseevich Gagarin, a man who became a symbol of humanity's dreams, courage and aspiration to the stars.
The monument was created in a modern style and represents Gagarin not in ceremonial pose or clothes, but as a living person close to everyone – sitting on a bench, as if resting after a long journey. This composition evokes a smile, surprise and a sense of respect for the great space pioneer.
The history of the monument
The sculpture appeared in 2018 and was installed on the initiative of students of one of the art faculties of Almaty. The work was conceived as a creative art project in honor of the 57th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin's flight.
The authors wanted to show that Yuri Gagarin is not just a historical figure, but a man who was able to "sit next to everyone" and become closer to people. However, the performance caused a mixed reaction. Some perceived the monument with humor, others with bewilderment.
Locals dubbed the sculpture the "mysterious cosmonaut" and quickly made it a popular destination. Interestingly, the authors sought to create an interactive monument – you can approach it, sit next to it, take a picture or just sit as if next to a friend. This place quickly became popular among the townspeople and tourists. Many people come here precisely for the unusual image and the ironic atmosphere of touching the cosmos.
Description of the sculpture
A man in a space suit is sitting on a bronze bench. Yes, exactly in a full space suit – with a helmet on his head, a lowered visor and a completely covered face. His arms are spread out on the back of the bench, his legs are crossed over his legs, and his suit trousers are neatly tucked into high boots. The pose is relaxed and friendly, as if a space hero had come to Earth just to take a break.
From the outside, it looks like an astronaut has just arrived from a long orbital journey, decided to rest a little, sat down in Almaty square and thought about the eternal. And now he will lift the visor of his helmet, and everyone will see the cosmonaut's face.
Yes, the cosmonaut's face is not visible – the helmet is tightly closed. Therefore, if it were not for the sign next to it, no one would have guessed that it was Yuri Gagarin. Tourists often joke that this is "an anonymous cosmonaut tired of the stars" or "an alien who decided to sit in Almaty."
Yuri Alekseevich Gagarin – the man who opened the way to the stars
Yuri Gagarin (1934-1968) was a Soviet cosmonaut who became the first person in history to fly into space. His name has forever entered the history of mankind as a symbol of courage, science and the dream of heaven.
On April 12, 1961, Gagarin made one orbit around the Earth on the Vostok-1 spacecraft, spending 108 minutes in flight, which changed the whole world. His famous word "Let's go!" became a symbol of the beginning of a new space age.
He was born in the small village of Klushino in the Smolensk region. Since childhood, he was interested in technology and aviation, graduated from the Saratov Aero Club, and then from the pilot school in Orenburg. His path is an example of how a man from a simple family can achieve the impossible through faith, perseverance and hard work.
After the flight, Gagarin became a hero not only of the Soviet Union, but of the whole world. He visited dozens of countries, met with heads of state, scientists and ordinary people. He was welcomed by millions – not as a politician, but as a man who gave humanity stars.
Despite his fame, Gagarin remained humble, kind, and simple. His smile became a symbol of peace and hope.
Tragically, he died on March 27, 1968, during a training flight, but his memory is alive. Cities, streets, schools and, of course, monuments such as "Yuri Gagarin on a Bench" in Almaty bear his name, which remind us that a person is capable of the impossible if he looks up at the sky with faith and a smile.
---------------------------------------------
How to get there and visit
The monument to Yuri Gagarin is located in Almaty on the alley along Gagarin Street, just above Abai Avenue, Bostandyk district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°14'18"N 76°53'40"E
You can get to the place by public transport, private car or taxi. Suitable routes: buses No. 3 (night), 25, 34, 57, 65, 92, 116, 118, 120, 128 and trolleybuses No. 5, 19, 25. The metro station "Alatau" is located 350 meters from the destination.
---------------------------------------------
Legend and atmosphere
The townspeople came up with a funny legend: if you sit next to Yuri Gagarin and make a wish related to a dream or a trip, it will definitely come true.
According to residents, the place has a special energy – calm and inspiring. Filming, lovers' walks and excursions for schoolchildren are often held here, talking about the first man in space.
Interesting facts and reactions
Immediately after installation, the sculpture caused a lively response on social networks. Alma Ata residents actively shared photos, came up with jokes and memes. Some suggested naming the monument "Cosmonaut after a difficult shift," others – "Gagarin who thought."
Now this place has become popular with tourists. Taking a picture next to the "bronze cosmonaut" is almost a tradition. Moreover, many people sit down next to each other on purpose, throw their legs in the same way and do the same pose – it turns out to be very funny and friendly fun.
Yuri Gagarin on a bench is a symbol of simplicity and mystery
This art object is one of those places in Almaty where humor, absurdity and philosophy are mixed. It's not so much about Gagarin himself as about the perception of heroes in the modern world.
On the one hand, it's funny and unusual. On the other hand, it inspires respect for the idea: after all, Gagarin really was a man who smiled, joked, believed in goodness and inspired millions.
So, passing by, you can not only smile, but also think: perhaps even astronauts sometimes just need to sit on a bench and take a break from the endless space.
Photogallery:
