Urban greenery, human memory, and the living history of the landscape -
Parks, squares, and green spaces in Almaty -
Roman Ivanovich Ognevoy Park is a quiet green corner of Almaty, located at the intersection of Al-Farabi Avenue and Sanatornaya Street. While not overly grand, it immediately conveys a sense of comfort, thoughtfulness, and respect for nature.
This space is dedicated to a man who dedicated his life to greening the city and shaping its floral image. Here, nature becomes more than just a backdrop for strolls, but an extension of human care and professional love for the city. Not far from the park is its larger sibling, the main Botanical Garden of Almaty.
Situated at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains, the park offers a stunning panorama of the Almaty mountains and majestic peaks. For example, from here, you can clearly see the Big Almaty Peak, located in the Big Almaty Gorge.
History
The park's history is directly linked to the name of Roman Ivanovich Ognevoy, one of the key experts in Almaty's landscaping in the second half of the 20th century. For many years, he served as the city's chief floral architect and contributed to the formation of the southern capital's green framework.
It was thanks to his knowledge, systematic approach, and attention to detail that the streets of Almaty were adorned with flowerbeds of petunias, tulips, and seasonal floral arrangements. His work was not limited to urban areas: he oversaw suburban agricultural zones, monitored the condition of wheat fields and apiaries, understanding the city as part of a unified natural landscape.
The Park bearing his name was created after his passing and became a form of grateful remembrance. His daughter, Anna Romanovna Ognevaya, played a major role in the creation and development of this space. She took over the curation of the park's landscaping and continued her father's work, preserving his principles of harmony and respect for nature.
Architecture and Layout
R.I. Ognevaya Park is not overloaded with architectural elements. Its layout is deliberately restrained, with an emphasis on green spaces, alleys, and open areas for leisurely strolls. The space is designed so that people feel part of the natural environment, not just a guest among decorative structures.
Here, content, not form, is important: trees, shrubs, flower beds, and lawns are selected with consideration for Almaty's climate and the seasonal changes of color. The park follows the rhythms of nature, gradually changing its mood from spring blossoms to the tranquil silence of autumn.
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How to get there and visit -
R.I. Ognevoy Park is located in Almaty at the intersection of Al-Farabi Avenue and Sanatornaya Street, in a convenient and easily accessible southern part of the city.
GPS coordinates: 43°12'23"N 76°54'55"E
You can get here by car, taxi, or public transport along Al-Farabi Avenue. The park is open to the public and is suitable for both short stops during walks and for a quiet family vacation.
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Atmosphere and Meaning
The park's atmosphere is characterized by peace and a sense of deliberate tranquility. There is no hustle and bustle, no loud rides, or heavy traffic. This is a place for leisurely strolls, reflection, and restoration of inner balance.
For Almaty, this park is a place of strength and memory, a living connection between generations. For tourists, it's a must-see spot to experience the city's rhythm, away from the tourist trail. Here, you can observe the daily life of locals, relax in the shade after a tour, and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the mountains. This is a place where you can truly feel the authentic, unpretentious spirit of Almaty.
The Park is perceived as a living monument to a working man whose profession rarely receives the spotlight, but whose results are seen and felt by thousands of city residents every day. It reminds us that the city's appearance is shaped not only by its buildings, but also by the people who nurture its green life.
Legend and Tradition
Among locals, there's a quiet belief that Ognevoy Park "grows well." They say that plants and flowers thrive here, as if the earth itself responds to the care given to it. Many attribute this to the character of the man after whom the park is named, believing that his love for the land and the city continues to be felt in this space.
Interesting sights nearby:
• Yuzhny Park;
• Yessentai River;
• New Terrencourt on the Yessentai River (health trail);
• Big Almaty River;
• Park of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
• Esenatai Mall shopping center;
• Al-Farabi Avenue.
