Memorial Museum of Abay
History of the Museum
Abay Qunanbaiuly, a renowned Kazakh poet, composer, and philosopher, was born in the Abay region. It was only fitting that his homeland became the location for his museum.
The Memorial Museum of Abay was established in 1940 in the city of Semey, making it one of the earliest museums in Kazakhstan. The opening of the museum coincided with the 95th anniversary of Abay's birth. Not only was Abay a prolific writer, but he was also involved in charitable work, education, and public affairs, earning him the love and respect of his fellow citizens.
Museum Exhibits
The museum boasts a collection of over 21,000 valuable exhibits. A sculpture of Abay greets visitors at the entrance. The first three halls showcase the exhibition "Abai and His Time," providing insight into the era of the esteemed poet. Another section of the exhibition focuses on Abay's literary works, featuring his poems in various languages and manuscripts donated by his relatives. The "Music of the Steppe" hall celebrates national music and instruments.
Another hall is dedicated to Abay's most significant work, the "Book of Words." This hall is illuminated with dim lighting, with quotes from the book projected onto the walls.
Opening hours:
Tuesday-Sunday – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Monday – closed
How to get there?
Address: Kazakhstan, Semey, 29 Kayim Mukhamedkhanov St.
The Memorial Museum of Abay is accessible by buses #3, 18, 29, 30, and 43. Disembark at the "Abay Museum" bus stop.
Other tourist attractions near the museum:
- Central Park
- Victory Park
- Semey Regional History Museum
- Abay Square
- Anatomical Museum
- Nevzorov Family Museum of Fine Arts
Recommended tours:
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On request
Embark on an exploration of the Soviet legacy on Kazakh soil! This tour takes you to the infamous labor camps of the Stalin era, Karlag and Alzhir, the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, and various other landmarks from the Soviet era.