The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen is a renowned park in Almaty, playing an essential role in the city's identity. It has a rich history dating back to 1872, when it was first established as the City Garden and Cathedral Garden in the city of Verny (modern-day Almaty). Over time, the garden evolved into a full-fledged park.
In 1942, the park was renamed in honor of Major General Ivan Panfilov and his soldiers. The story of the 28 Panfilov guardsmen is one of the most famous and inspiring stories of the Great Patriotic War (World War II). On November 16, 1941, during the Battle of Moscow, 28 soldiers of the 316th Rifle Division, led by Major Ivan Panfilov, defended their position against an overwhelming enemy force. Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, the soldiers held their ground for 36 hours, fighting until their last bullet was fired and their last breath was taken. Their bravery and selflessness inspired the people of Kazakhstan and the Soviet Union and served as a symbol of resistance against the Nazi invaders.
Important and notable objects of the park:
- The Ascension Cathedral, a wooden architectural marvel, is a prominent landmark located within the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen. Constructed between 1904 and 1906, it has become one of the most recognizable sights not only in Almaty, but also in all of Kazakhstan.
- The Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, established in 1980, is housed in an intriguing wooden building from the early 20th century. It serves as a display venue for a rich array of Kazakh musical instruments.
- The Military History Museum, also known as the House of the Army, is a repository of military artifacts from various historical periods.
- The Memorial of Glory is a complex built in 1975. It consists of the Eternal Flame and a large statue of a soldier standing guard.
The park also features monuments to several notable figures, including Baurjan Momyshuly (military officer and writer), T. Bokin (a revolutionary), and Afghan Warriors from Kazakhstan.
In addition to the monuments mentioned above, the park also features the Alley of Presidents, the ARTiSHOCK Theater, and the Alley of Friendship.
Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the park's cafes or restaurants, or take a leisurely scooter ride along its wide alleys. This park is more than just a place to spend a relaxing day, it's a recognized piece of history and architecture.
How to get there?
Location: Kazakhstan, the city of Almaty, square of Kazybek bi, Kunayev, Gogol, and Kaldayakov streets.
The park is conveniently located in the city center. You can take buses #13, 16, 22, 66, 112, 126, 129 or trolleybuses #1, 9, 11, 12, 19. Just a 10-minute walk away from the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen is the Zhibek Zholy subway station.
Other tourist attractions near the park:
- Panfilov and Zhibek Zholy streets
- Tulebayev Street
- Almaty Historical and Architectural Reserve
- Kazakh State Philharmonic named after Zhambyl
- State Puppet Theater
- Astana Square
- Green Bazaar