A unique architectural and landscape object and an important symbol of diplomatic relations -
The Alley of Eternal Friendship between Kazakhstan and Russia is an original natural and architectural ensemble located in the Nura district of Astana. This picturesque walking area attracts the attention of citizens with its deep symbolic content. Here, landscape designers and builders turned the green alley into a living metaphor for the historical community and strategic partnership of the two states, located near the grand state "Astana Opera" State Opera and Ballet Theater.
The large-scale arrangement and grand opening of this unique space took place within the framework of strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties between the countries. The decision to create this landmark location was made by the leaders of the two states, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin, in November 2024.
The project became an official symbol of the unbreakable bonds connecting the two nations, which is emphasized by its strategic location in the developed center of the left bank of the capital. The celebratory planting of an oak tree by the presidents on the alley on May 28, 2026, served as a bright sign of mutual respect, strong friendship, and multifaceted cooperation.
Today, this alley is considered one of the most popular places for leisurely evening walks and interesting meetings. Next to the alley passes the Nurzhol pedestrian boulevard, along which through Lovers Park and the Round Square you can walk to the Bayterek Monument. Inside the monument, you can go up to the observation deck, which offers a beautiful panorama of the capital and the Akorda Presidential Residence.
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How to get there and visit -
The Alley of Eternal Friendship between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation is located at the address: 1 Dinmukhamed Konaev Street, along Turan Avenue, between Saraishyk Street and Konaev Street, Nura district, left bank of the Esil River, Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 51°08'06"N 71°24'31"E
You can reach the alley by various public transport routes. Buses No. 12, 21, 26, 32, 35, 37, 46, 50, 53, 70, 300, 305, 312, 803, or 807 will suit you. You should get off at the "Astana Opera Theater" or "KazMunayGas" stop.
For private car owners, parking pockets and parking zones are provided from the side of the adjacent streets and the square in front of the theater. Additionally, you can use city taxi services via a mobile application to travel.
Visiting the Alley of Eternal Friendship is completely free and open to all residents and guests of the region.
Entrance to the entire pedestrian territory is open 24/7.
The nearest cultural institutions, mobile outlets, and coffee shops operate according to their own individual schedules.
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History
The history of this alley began in November 2024, when during the official state visit of the Russian leader to Astana, the heads of the two states initiated the creation of a new landmark place for the leisure of citizens. The opening of this space coincided with significant dates: it took place in the year of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory and the 25th anniversary of twin-city relations between Astana and Moscow.
The official grand opening of the alley took place on May 28, 2025, with the participation of the Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva, the Minister of Culture of Russia Olga Lyubimova, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation Alexey Borodavkin, and the Akim of Astana Zhenis Kassymbek.
A true milestone in the development of the complex was May 28, 2026, when Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin personally planted an oak tree here as a sign of unbreakable multifaceted cooperation.
During the solemn presentation of the project, the heads of the cultural departments of the two countries introduced the creative intelligentsia and diplomatic missions in detail to the deep concept of the park zone.
The main idea behind creating this space was to strengthen historical memory and spiritual unity. The opening of the alley in the year of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War recalled the times when many leading cultural institutions were evacuated to Kazakhstan, creating great works of art here.
As part of the opening, a "Cultural Dialogue" round table and a festive concert of masters of arts on the stage of "Astana Opera" were also held. Over the past time, the alley has proven its relevance, becoming a bright symbol of trust and friendship directed into the future.
Information
The Alley of Eternal Friendship between Kazakhstan and Russia is arranged as a complex multifunctional space combining the features of a landscape square, a memorial zone, and a developing platform for joint cultural projects. Excellent conditions have been created here for meetings of artists, musicians, actors, historians, and young talents. For fans of an active lifestyle, well-maintained pedestrian paths have been laid out, which are promptly cleared of snow with the onset of winter. Also, comfortable park benches, small architectural forms, and lighting systems are installed in the recreational sector.
The landscape engineers paid special attention to filling the green fund: more than 200 valuable 30-year-old oak saplings and about 50 thousand decorative shrubs were planted on the territory. The central place in the composition is occupied by the oak planted by the heads of state on May 28, 2026. For the convenience of navigation, signposts are installed at key forks, helping tourists find their way in the space. In the summer period, the alley becomes a favorite holiday destination for residents and guests of the capital.
Detailed description of the object
The well-thought-out infrastructure of the alley includes the following original locations:
• Main pedestrian group – a welcoming zone from the side of the "Astana Opera" theater square, designed in a modern urban style.
• Central promenade – a wide walking path along which straight rows of young trees are planted and well-kept flower beds are laid out.
• Presidential oak – a symbolic tree planted by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Vladimir Putin, acting as the main compositional and spiritual core of the alley.
• Oak grove sector – a landscape area of more than 200 mature thirty-year-old oaks, symbolizing the longevity and strength of interstate ties.
• Recreational zones – cozy areas with designer benches for the recreation of citizens, surrounded by 50 thousand decorative shrubs.
Architecture
The architectural design of the alley is based on the principles of modern eco-urbanism with the integration of elements of national symbolism. All paths and functional zones are subject to a linear layout, harmoniously linked with the majestic building of the "Astana Opera" theater. The highlight of the landscape architecture is the combination of strict geometries of pedestrian paths and natural outlines of green spaces, reminiscent of the synergy of Ancient Rus and the Great Steppe, about which Lev Gumilyov wrote.
Long-lasting natural materials were used in the construction of the facilities: granite, wood, and wild stone. The architectural ensemble smoothly connects the urban buildings of the administrative center with the park areas of the left bank.
Legend
Among the citizens and creative people walking here, a modern legend is already being born about the presidential oak planted by the heads of the two states on May 28, 2026. It is believed that this tree possesses a special creative energy: if a person is looking for a reliable business partner, a dependable ally, or a faithful friend, they should come to the young oak grove at sunset. It is believed that the spirit of the centuries-old tree grants strength to any unions started with pure intentions.
Another legend is connected with the decorative shrubs planted around the alley: it is believed that if young musicians or actors take a walk along these paths before going on the stage of "Astana Opera", they will definitely find a common language with the audience and preserve the best in their art.
Conclusion
The Alley of Eternal Friendship between Kazakhstan and Russia is a magnificent green bridge connecting the historical and cultural heritage of the two countries with the modern architectural thought of the capital. Visiting this landscape center allows guests of the city to enjoy a pleasant walk and feel the importance of preserving shared spiritual values passed down from generation to generation.
The alley remains an important landmark for ecological leisure and cultural communication in the very heart of the left bank. Tourist routes definitely include this spot in the lists of must-visit places, allowing everyone to fill their day with freshness and tranquility.
Interesting sights nearby:
• Round Square;
• Abu Nasir Al-Farabi Mosque;
• "Lovers" Monument (My Happiness);
• Zhetysu Park;
• Central Park;
• “Khan Shatyr” SEC;
• “Emerald Quarter”;
• “Kazakhstan Temir Zholy” Building;
• “Korme” Exhibition Center.
Additional information:
• Useful information about Astana;
• Where to go and what to see in Astana.
• Akmola region - information and photos.
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