Place where the steps of modern Almaty sound in the rhythm of the past -
Urban space where history and architecture come together in a single silhouette -
The Park-Square on Astana Square is the small green heart of the big city of Almaty, a space where the architecture of the Soviet era, the strict geometry of the landscape and the memory of the heroes combine into a single atmosphere. The square is located around the famous square, which has become one of the symbolic points of the metropolis. Here, every corner seems to preserve the history of the formation of the city, its cultural character and the first steps of Kazakhstan as a young republic. Panfilov pedestrian Street is located next to the park.
There is a monument to Alia Moldagulova and Manshuk Mametova in the square, as well as the Kazakh British Technological University KBTU (former government house) located on the square in front of the square. Behind the university building in the lower, northern part there is another "park at KBTU", which is a continuation of the main park.
Astana Square and its park are an important public space, often used for city events, celebrations and open-air photo exhibitions. There are comfortable benches, flower beds, and fountains in the summer, creating a pleasant coolness. The square is ideal for taking a break from the rhythm of the big city, meeting friends or just enjoying the view of the surrounding architecture. Another attraction near the square and the park is the former building of the Kazpotrebsoyuz.
History
Astana Square and the adjacent park appeared during the rapid transformation of Almaty into the status of a capital city. After the transfer of the capital of the Kazakh ASSR from the city of Kyzylorda to the city of Alma Ata, in the late 1920s and early 1930s, a government center began to form on the site of the former Cossack Square. This space became the core of the city government, an architectural landmark around which the life of the future metropolis gradually unfolded.
It was here that the unique architectural image of Almaty was formed – a combination of strict forms, monumentality and green areas. And although the city has changed today, the square retains the look of that era: conciseness, order, clarity of lines and a sense of historical significance.
In the post–war years, the square acquired another important feature - a memorial. A monument to two Kazakhstani heroines of the Great Patriotic War, Manshuk Mametova and Alia Moldagulova, was erected here. Their fragile bronze figures became a reminder of courage, female perseverance and the great price of Victory in the Second World War.
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How to get there and visit -
The square is located in the very center of Almaty, on Astana Square along Tole bi Street and Bogenbai Batyr Street, between Abylai Khan Street and Panfilov Street, Almaly district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'13"N 76°56'36"E
It is convenient to get to the park on Astana Square by private car, taxi or public transport. Buses No. 16, 37 and 48 run directly to the park. In addition, two Almaty metro stations are located near this urban location: Zhibek Zholy and Almaly.
The best time to walk is in the morning and evening, when the soft light falls on the geometry of the square, and the noise of the city becomes the background, not the main note.
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Atmosphere and features
The square is made in the classic French regular style – strict lines, symmetry, geometrically adjusted shapes. This approach highlights the grandeur of the architectural ensembles around, especially the facade of the Kazakh-British Technical University. The surrounding trees and shrubs are planted in a precise rhythm, creating alleys and neat "green rooms" where light and shade play in summer.
Despite the strict structure, the square feels surprisingly cozy. Citizens like to relax here: someone comes to read on a bench, someone takes a walk before the start of the working day, and someone just lingers for a minute to breathe in the fresh air among the old center.
During city holidays, the space comes to life especially vividly. A temporary stage is being set up on the square in front of the park, concerts, performances by artists, and folk festivals are taking place. The square becomes a part of a big city celebration, giving its alleys to the sound of music and children's laughter.
Legend
There is an unspoken story among the old-timers of the district: they say that once upon a time, soldiers who returned from the front planted the first trees on the site of the current square, each in honor of a friend who did not return from the war. No one can reliably confirm this, but many are sure that this is why there is a special calm and warmth in the park – as if the trees themselves keep their memory and quietly tell it to those who come here.
The square on Astana Square is more than just a park. It is a living, breathing space in the heart of a megalopolis, where daily urban life and moments of quiet relaxation are intertwined. A must-have item for those who want to experience the rhythm and comfort of Almaty at the same time. For tourists, this is one of the most photogenic locations in the city: the combination of monumental architecture, neat landscape and mountain background creates shots worthy of guidebooks. For residents, it is an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
Interesting sights nearby:
• Park of 28 Panfilov Guards;
• Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame;
• Cathedral;
• Tulebayeva Street;
• Dinmukhamed Kunaev Square;
• Republican Museum of Folk Musical Instruments named after Ykylas;
• Kazakh State Academic Theater and Opera named after Abai Kunanbayev.
• Abai Opera and Ballet Theater Park;
• Bust Monument to Zhambyl Zhabaev;
• Nedelka Fountain;
• Zhibek Zholy Pedestrian Street;
• Hotel "Almaty".
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