Modern cultural and public spaces of the city -
Urban memory, war heroes and the spirit of national unity -
The monument to Bauyrzhan Momyshuly is one of the most important memorial sites in Almaty, where history, glory and deep respect for the feat meet in one space. It is located in the green heart of the city, in the Park named after 28 Panfilov Guards, and has served as a symbol of military honor and national pride for many years.
This is a place where they pay tribute not only to the legendary Panfilov, but also to all those who fought for freedom and the future of the country. People come here to feel connected with the great past, to be inspired by the power of the spirit and to show the younger generation a real hero.
There is a place of special energy and strength here. People speak softly here, and they often pause here, peering into the commander's stern and determined face. It is more than a monument; it is the assemblage point of the national spirit, where everyone can stop for a moment and reflect on the most important thing, duty, honor and Homeland.
The history of the monument's creation and the personality of Bauyrzhan Momyshuly
Bauyrzhan Momyshuly was born in 1910 into a nomadic family in the Zhambyl region. His early life was far from his future fame, he was a teacher, worked in district structures, served in the militia and held positions in local government agencies. His military service began long before World War II: he participated in conflicts in the Far East, where he first proved himself as an officer with a strong character.
But Momyshula's real path began in 1941, when the 316th Infantry Division was formed in Alma Ata under the command of General Panfilov. Senior Lieutenant Bauyrzhan led a battalion of the Talgar Infantry regiment. A few months later, his unit was sent to Moscow, where the legendary combat path began.
In October 1941, the division was ordered to take up defense in the Volokolamsk direction, the one that would later become a symbol of Panfilov's resilience. During the battle, Momyshuly participated in twenty-seven battles, showing exemplary battalion command. His battle near the village of Matrenino, where the unit delayed the enemy's offensive for three days, became one of the key episodes of the defense of Moscow.
His ability to maintain order, iron discipline and a clear mind in the most difficult conditions made him one of the most respected army commanders. Commander Rokossovsky personally appointed Momyshuly commander of the regiment – the rarest recognition for an officer who started the war with the rank of senior lieutenant.
After the war, he became a writer and military thinker. His books – among them "Moscow is Behind Us", "General Panfilov", "Our Family" – were recognized by readers and critics, and one of his works was screened at the Kazakhfilm film studio.
Momyshuly lived a vibrant life, combining service, literature, teaching and deep reflections on duty and honor. He died in Almaty in 1982, leaving a huge moral and cultural legacy. In 1990, he was posthumously awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union.
Monument creation and artistic image
The monument was erected in 2010, to mark the 100th anniversary of the hero's birth. The authors were sculptors Nurlan Dalbai and Rinat Satybaldiev. Their task was not just to convey Momyshula's appearance, it was important to create an image of a man whose inner strength is felt even decades later.
The figure is made of bronze and stands on a granite pedestal. The height of the composition reaches six meters. Bauyrzhan is depicted standing tall, as if ready to lead his battalion again. His cloak is pulled back by the wind, emphasizing the very determination that distinguished him at the front.
The hero's face is executed with special precision: a calm and attentive look reflects the depth of his character, will and ability to make decisions at the most critical moments.
Atmosphere and cultural significance
The area around the monument encourages silence and a respectful mood. It is rarely noisy here – the place itself seems to set the tone: thoughtful, bright, internally collected.
This is one of the important points of city tours. Schoolchildren, tourists, and group tours come here. People come to touch history: to see where the monument to one of the main symbols of Kazakhstan's courage stands.
The monument is of particular importance for veterans and their families. This is a place of remembrance where everyone remembers their ancestors who survived the war generation.
---------------------------------------------
How to get there and visit -
The monument is located in the center of Almaty on Gogol Street, corner of Pushkin Street, in the park of 28 Panfilov Guards, next to the Ascension Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory, Medeu district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'37"N 76°57'11"E
The monument is easily accessible by private car or taxi. By public transport, it is most convenient to take bus routes. № 13, 16, 22, 66, 112, 126, 129 or on trolleybuses № 1, 9, 11, 12, 19, which regularly ply the area.
The monument is open to the public around the clock.
---------------------------------------------
Legend and urban memory
There is a good legend associated with the monument, which is told by local residents. It is said that in the early morning, when the sun only touches the top of the bronze shoulder, a soft glow appears on Momyshula's face, as if a reflection of his inner light. People consider it a sign of courage and protection, a symbol that the hero's spirit lives nearby today.
There is another belief: if you approach the monument with thoughts of a difficult choice or a difficult life situation, the answer will come unexpectedly quickly. Bauyrzhan Momyshuly was known for his wisdom, and many believe that this quality remained in his image after his death.
The monument to Bauyrzhan Momyshuly is not just bronze and granite. This is a stopped moment when time stood still to honor someone who was not afraid to look into the eyes of death and led others. It's not just a sculpture. It's a voice that doesn't require a microphone. The voice of a Kazakh soldier, whose name has become a legend and whose feat has become a national treasure.
But Baurzhan does not shout about the feat. He just stands there. And in that silence is all the power.
Interesting sights nearby:
• Memorial of Glory;
• Cathedral;
• The Museum of Musical Instruments named after Ykylas;
• House of Officers-House of the Army;
• Gorky Central Park of Culture and Recreation;
• Zhambyl Kazakh State Philharmonic;
• Green Bazaar;
• Small Stage Artishok Theater;
• Tulebaev Street;
• Panfilov Pedestrian Street;
• Zhibek Zholy Pedestrian Street;
• Astana Square.
Photogallery:
