Military History Museum, Almaty

The Military History Museum, located in the monumental Army House (formerly the Officers’ House) within the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, has been operating since 1965. In 2016, it became a branch of the newly established Military History Museum of Kazakhstan, which opened in 2015 in Astana. The museum is currently headed by the granddaughter of the legendary General Ivan Panfilov, a hero of the Battle of Moscow. A significant portion of the collection is dedicated to the Panfilov Division, which was formed in Almaty in July 1941.

Initially, the museum was housed nearby in a small wooden mansion from the early 20th century, which now serves as the Museum of Musical Instruments. This building, reminiscent of a Russian terem, was once the headquarters of the District Officers’ House. In 1978, a new building was constructed directly behind the “terem” for the cultural needs of the military, and the Military History Museum moved into this new space.

The building currently housing the museum is a notable example of Soviet architecture. In 1991, it was declared a monument of republican architectural significance, and in 1993, it was incorporated into the Almaty State Historical, Architectural, and Memorial Reserve. Together with the memorial to the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, it forms a unified architectural ensemble. After visiting the museum, it’s recommended to walk down the steps to the Eternal Flame at the Glory Memorial to fully appreciate the vision of the architects and sculptors.

The museum holds a special place in the life of Almaty. A few years ago, rumors circulated about its closure and the transfer of exhibits to Astana due to the construction of the national Military History Museum there. However, these rumors were fortunately unfounded. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Defense firmly supported keeping the museum in Almaty. In 2018, restoration work was carried out, with significant help from local Almaty residents. The renovated museum reopened in time for the 2018 Victory Day celebrations.

The Military History Museum of Almaty today primarily focuses on the period of World War II. While earlier exhibitions covered the history of Kazakhstan’s military formations from ancient times to the present, the museum underwent reorganization after becoming a branch of the Astana museum. Its space was reduced from 2,200 square meters to 600 square meters, and the collections now focus exclusively on the 20th century and modern times.

The museum’s exhibits, newly displayed after renovation, are located on two floors of the right wing of the Officers’ House. Most of the exhibits are on the second floor, while the first floor features a historical diorama of the Battle of Moscow, created over 30 years ago.

Three halls on the second floor showcase collections that recount Kazakhstan’s military history from the early 20th century, its involvement in World War II, and the modern era. A small section is devoted to veterans of the Afghan War and the Chernobyl disaster. The World War II displays highlight major events, including the Battle of Moscow, the Siege of Leningrad, the Battle of Kursk, and the Battle of Stalingrad.

The museum’s collection includes military weapons and equipment used by Soviet troops since the early 20th century. The collection is divided into four categories: armored forces, artillery, air defense forces, and special troops. Visitors can view tanks, armored vehicles, cannons, anti-aircraft guns, reconnaissance vehicles, aircraft, military boats, rocket models, and more.

The collection contains over 122 pieces of military equipment, some of which are unique, being the only examples of their kind. In addition to military equipment, visitors can explore weapons from that era, battle flags, relics from the battlefields, medals, documents, and personal items belonging to soldiers. Of particular emotional impact are the artifacts from the Brest Fortress. The museum houses approximately 10,000 exhibits in total.

A special part of the museum’s collection is dedicated to General Panfilov and the history of the 316th Rifle Division, known as the “Panfilov Division.” Among the exhibits are the general’s personal belongings, documents, and books. Notably, the museum’s collection is private, having been painstakingly gathered over the years by the daughter of Ivan Panfilov. In addition to the Panfilov family relics, the museum also displays items belonging to other participants of that brutal war, donated by residents of Almaty and neighboring regions, underscoring why the museum holds a special place in the hearts of Almaty’s people.

The museum is located in the right wing of the Officers’ House, easily accessible by public transport or on foot. Nearby attractions within walking distance include the Central Park of Culture and Leisure and the Almaty Zoo. The Zhibek Zholy metro station is less than a 15-minute walk away. Visitors can enter the Military History Museum through the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, passing the Ascension Cathedral and the Glory Memorial.

Opening Hours:
Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays and Sundays.

Contact Number:
+7 (727) 291-06-19

Address:
24 Zenkova Street, Almaty