Independence Monument and Republic Square
Kazakhstan places a great deal of importance on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Like many other nations, we have undergone a challenging journey to achieve independence. With the attainment of freedom, numerous monuments and structures were erected across the country to honor independent Kazakhstan. One of these is the Independence Monument, which stands proudly on Republic Square.
The city’s largest square
The history of Republic Square dates back to a time when Lenin Square (now Astana Square) was the main square in Almaty. In the 1960s and 1970s, Almaty experienced significant population growth, and Lenin Square could no longer accommodate the large crowds who attended events. In response, Dinmukhamed Kunaev, the first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan, initiated the construction of a new square.
The newly built Republic Square opened in 1975 and was named after Leonid Brezhnev, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. The square was later renamed after the collapse of the Soviet Union. With a length of 580 meters (634 yd) and a width of 210 meters (230 yd), the square is quite spacious. Kunaev and his assistants planted numerous Tien Shan firs around the square, although many were later cut down during the construction of an underground shopping center.
Today, Republic Square is an exquisite place for public gatherings, decorated with flower beds, fountains, and lush greenery. It remains the primary venue for many significant holidays, such as New Year and Nauryz. The square is also home to several remarkable landmarks, such as the Independence Monument, which is flanked by two high-rise residential buildings that add to the square's iconic status. Additionally, the square features various facilities, such as workout zones, bike parking, scooter rentals, a public toilet, and administrative buildings.
In December 2022, the Tagzym Memorial dedicated to the victims of the January 2022 events was constructed on the square, adding to its significance. Today, Republic Square is one of the most recognizable places in Almaty and a hub for public gatherings, cultural events, and celebrations.
A Symbol of Kazakhstan's Past, Present, and Future
In the heart of Republic Square stands the Independence Monument, a towering 28-meter (92 ft) high stele that is the main attraction and a symbol of independent Kazakhstan. Inspired by kulpytases (steles with four or eight sides native to the Mangistau Region), the monument features a sculpture of the Golden Man, a Scythian warrior on a winged snow leopard, both of which are considered symbols of Kazakhstan's invincible spirit and strength. The monument also includes allegorical symbols of Father and Mother, representing Heaven and Earth, as well as two children symbolizing the youth and future of the country. Ten bas-reliefs around the stele depict significant events from Kazakhstan's history:
- The era of the Massagetae queen Tomiris and her victory over the Persians
- The era of the great scientist, mathematician, and philosopher Al-Farabi. Korkyt Ata with a kobyz (traditional musical instrument) in his hand and a legend about the origin of the Turks from a heavenly she-wolf
- Kazakh Khanate, 15th century
- The Barefooted Flight (1723-1727)
- The battle between Abylai Khan and Sharysh (Kalmyk leader)
- Exiled people of Russia and Ukraine come to Kazakhstan during the tsarist period
- The uprising led by Sultan Sadyk, the son of Kenesary Khan
- World War II
- Jeltoksan Protests (a political rally that took place on December 16, 1986)
- Declaration of Independence, oath of the 1st President N.A. Nazarbayev
Independence Monument serves as a reminder that the past shapes the future and is a great way for both residents and visitors to learn about the history of Kazakhstan.
How to get there?
Location: Almaty, between Jeltoksan St. and Nazarbayev Ave., the square crosses the Satpayev St.
Republic Square is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation. Several bus routes, including No. 2, 32, 45, 63, 70, 86, 95, 121, 124, 127, and 205, run along the streets surrounding the square. Abay subway station is 800 meters (875 yd) away from the square.
Other tourist destinations near Republic Square:
- Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Akimat of Almaty
- Dawn of Freedom Monument
- National Library of Kazakhstan
- Lermontov Russian Drama Theatre
- Palace of Schoolchildren
- InterContinental Almaty Hotel
- Kazakh National Agrarian University
- Golden Square of Almaty
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