The memory of the national hero and the symbol of the struggle of the Kazakh people -
Historical monuments of Almaty and heroes of the national movement -
The monument to Amangeldy Imanov is a cult equestrian monument that occupies a special place in the history of Almaty and the whole country. Towering in a small park opposite the Musrepov Youth Theater, the bronze figure of batyr became a reminder of a man whose name is associated with the popular uprising of 1916 and the formation of a new era in Kazakhstan.
The monument attracts not only tourists, but also historical researchers, students and residents of the city. He is a vivid example of how art can preserve the memory of the people and pass it on to future generations. There is a mountain peak of Amangeldy Imanov in the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau (in the mountains of Almaty).
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The history of the monument's creation
The first ideas for installing a monument to Amangeldy Imanov appeared back in the 1930s, when the country was preparing for the 20th anniversary of the 1916 uprising. However, it wasn't until years later that the project became a reality.
Work on the monument began after a large creative competition. The winner was the sculptor Khasbulat Askar-Saridzha, one of the most talented artists of his time. He had to solve a difficult task: not a single photograph of Imanov was preserved, so the image was collected literally bit by bit – according to eyewitness accounts, documents, paintings and memoirs.
The equestrian figure was cast in 1950 at the famous Leningrad Monumentsculpture factory. The pedestal was cut out of gray and pink granite, supplemented with national ornaments and installed on the Comintern Square (now the area of Abylai Khan Avenue).
The grand opening took place on November 19, 1950. A rally of thousands was held on the square, dedicated to the struggle and feat of the people's hero.
Today, the monument is included in the state list of monuments of national importance.
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Description of the monument
The monument is presented in the form of a powerful equestrian composition. Amangeldy is depicted in dynamic movement, as if he were stopping a horse to address people.
• The sculpture is made of bronze and weighs about 8 tons
• The height of the figure is about 4 meters
• Granite pedestal about 5 meters
• The ornament is made by the technique of small bouchards
The batyr is shown in a traditional sheepskin coat, confidently sitting in the saddle. His posture expresses determination, willpower and willingness to lead the people. A face is a collective image created based on historical descriptions.
The composition is characterized by harmonious proportions, a clear silhouette and dynamic movement.
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Amangeldy Imanov – personality and historical role
Amangeldy Uderbayuly Imanov (1873-1919) is one of the most prominent figures in the history of the Kazakh national liberation movement of the early 20th century. He was born into a poor peasant family in Turgai county and from a young age became famous as a fair, honest and brave man who did not put up with the arbitrariness of the authorities and defended the interests of the common people.
In 1916, when the mandatory mobilization of Kazakhs for logistical work began, Imanov became one of the key leaders of a large-scale uprising that engulfed almost the entire region. He organized detachments, developed resistance tactics, and became a de facto "people's batyr," followed by thousands of people. His strategic talent, ability to negotiate and determination made him the central figure of the events.
After the 1917 revolution, Amangeldy supported the establishment of a new government, believing that it would give more rights and opportunities for equality of peoples. During the Civil War, he led armed formations, opposing the White Guard units and seeking to protect the region from chaos and reprisals.
His life tragically ended in 1919 under unclear circumstances, but his memory lives on. Imanov became a symbol of the struggle for freedom, national dignity and independence. His image is immortalized in paintings, films, literature, street names and monuments, including in Almaty, where one of the most significant monuments of the city is installed.
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How to get there and visit
The monument to Amangeldy Imanov is located in Almaty on Abylai Khan Avenue, between Aliya Muldagulova Street and Manshuk Mametova Street, opposite the Gabit Musrepov Theater, Almaly district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'57"N 76°56'21"E
The monument is easily accessible by any form of transport except the metro. You can use buses. № 12, 20, 32, 40, 59, 63, 92, 98, 113, 119, trolleybuses No. 5 and 6, or take a private car or taxi.
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Legend and legend
The townspeople say that if you approach the monument early in the morning and quietly ask for help in an important matter, the batyr will "send strength and determination", as in the days of his struggle.
There is another legend: students who walk around the monument in a circle exactly once before the exam are lucky, supposedly the spirit of Imanov helps those who work honestly and respect history.
These legends are passed down from generation to generation and have become part of local folklore.
Interesting nearby attractions:
• Almaty-2 Railway Station
• ARTISHOK Theater (small stage)
• Tulebayev Street
• Panfilov Pedestrian Street
• Zhibek Zholy Pedestrian Street
• Monument to Mukagali Makatayev
• Monument to Sergey Lugansky
• Gabit Musrepov Theater
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