Independence Monument, Almaty

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Independence Monument, Almaty

Today, the Independence Monument of Kazakhstan stands as one of the most prominent landmarks in Almaty. The architect, Sh. Valikhanov, brought his vision of modern Kazakhstan to life through this project. Valikhanov, alongside a team of talented architects, sculptors, and builders, spent years shaping this ambitious monument. It required innovative architectural, compositional, and construction solutions. The monument incorporates key symbols of the republic, including the Baiterek and the Golden Man, both central to Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage.

In honor of this grand monument, symbolizing the nation’s journey to freedom, several commemorative coins and medals were issued. Many visitors to Almaty make it a point to visit the Independence Monument, capturing memorable photographs. The architectural brilliance of the monument and the surrounding square makes it one of the most visited places in Kazakhstan’s former capital.

Kazakhstan declared its sovereignty in 1990, followed by full independence in 1991. The monument’s inauguration took place five years later, in 1996, on the central square, following a decree from the republic’s first president.

The monument also has an interesting origin story: its creation was inspired by an official visit by President Nursultan Nazarbayev to Egypt. During his trip, Nazarbayev saw a monument dedicated to Egypt’s independence in Luxor and decided that Kazakhstan needed a similar symbol of freedom. The architect who accompanied him on that trip, and who later designed the monument, was honored with bringing this vision to life.

The monument is part of a large memorial complex spanning over 180 meters in width. At its core is a 28-meter-tall stele that soars into the sky, resembling the ancient kulpytasy, the stone markers found across Kazakhstan. Atop this stele stands a statue of the Golden Man, a hero from the nation’s epic folklore. He is depicted riding a winged leopard, symbolizing the strength and enduring authority of the republic. The base of the monument is a semicircular pedestal, set in the center of a paved square. Given the presence of the Golden Man, a symbol of Kazakhstan’s independence, the monument is sometimes referred to as «The Golden Man Monument in Almaty.»

The Golden Man statue itself stands six meters tall.

The monument is seamlessly integrated into the surrounding landscape. From a distance, it aligns harmoniously with the backdrop of two towering buildings, and as visitors approach, the stele seems to rise even higher, creating a dramatic contrast with the urban environment.

The date of Kazakhstan’s independence is engraved on the stele. At the base, there are sculptures of Mother Earth and the Sage of the Sky, two significant figures from national folklore. Additionally, the foundation is adorned with statues of children riding horses, representing both the youthful spirit of the republic and the bright future awaiting the Kazakh people. These sculptures are oriented in four directions, forming a square that enhances the monument’s sense of grandeur and stability.

One unique feature of the Independence Monument is a bronze book, cast with the handprint of the first president. Visitors have developed a tradition of placing their hands on this imprint and making a wish, hoping for good fortune.

Encircling the stele are ten bas-reliefs, depicting key moments in Kazakhstan’s history—from ancient times to the present day. The number ten was chosen to represent the dawn of a new era of prosperity and peace for the Kazakh people. Alongside the sculptures, the bas-reliefs are inscribed with aphorisms, both ancient and modern, connecting the monument’s symbolism with the nation’s past and future.