Abay Square began to take shape in the 1970s, when Almaty (then Alma-Ata) was actively expanding southward, toward the mountains. The city was growing, and it needed a new square that could become an administrative and cultural center for the new districts. Architects envisioned it as a ceremonial space at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau — a kind of calling card of the city from the mountain side.
The main element of the ensemble was the Palace of the Republic — a large building designed for concerts and mass events. Around it, a spacious square was laid out with fountains, lawns were planted, and trees were put in. A monument to Abay Kunanbayev was installed in the center, which had originally stood in a different location — in the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen — but in the 1970s it was moved here, making it the compositional center of the new square.
The architectural ensemble came together as a unified whole: the palace, the square, the monument, and the green spaces formed a harmonious space. In the 1980s, another building appeared nearby — the Kazakhstan Hotel — which completed the line of development. Thus, one of the most recognizable architectural ensembles of Almaty gradually took shape, and it remains an important public center of the city to this day.
Who is Abay Kunanbayev
Abay Kunanbayev (1845–1904) is the greatest poet, thinker, composer, and educator of the Kazakh people. He is called the "father of Kazakh literature," and his influence on the culture of Kazakhstan is comparable to that of Pushkin on Russian literature.
Abay was born into the family of a wealthy feudal lord in Eastern Kazakhstan, but after receiving an excellent education, he renounced his privileges and devoted his life to enlightening his people. He was the first to translate into Kazakh the works of Pushkin, Lermontov, Goethe, and Byron, introducing Kazakhs to world literature. His own poems and poetics are profound philosophical lyrics, reflections on the meaning of life, justice, good, and evil.
In addition, Abay was a talented composer. His songs — such as "Kozimnin karasy" and "Zhelsiz tunde zharik ai" — became folk songs and are still performed today.
For Kazakhs, Abay is not just a poet. He is a symbol of national revival, a man who showed his people the path to education and culture. That is why his monument stands on the main square of the city, and his name has been given to avenues, theaters, and universities throughout Kazakhstan.
Monument to Abay: A Gaze into the Future
In the center of the square stands a bronze monument to Abay. The poet is depicted at full height, with a dombra in his hands, as if he had just finished playing and paused to reflect on eternity. His gaze is directed into the distance — toward the mountains, which have always been a symbol of freedom and eternity for Kazakhs.
The monument was unveiled in 1960 (sculptor Kh. Nauryzbayev, architect I. Belotserkovsky). Interestingly, it originally stood in a different location — in the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen. But in the 1970s, when the square was being formed, the monument was moved here, making it the central element of the new ensemble. This was a symbolic gesture: the city was growing southward, and Abay seemed to have "turned" toward the new districts, blessing their growth.
Palace of the Republic: The Main Stage of Kazakhstan
The Palace of the Republic is the central building of the square. Its construction began in 1970 and lasted three years. The opening took place in 1973, and since then, the palace has become the main concert and event venue in Almaty.
The architectural design (architects: N. Ripinsky, V. Alle, A. Sokolov, L. Ukhobotov) is an example of Soviet modernism with elements of national style. The main facade is decorated with huge stained-glass windows. The building has a spacious foyer, a large concert hall with 2,500 seats, and numerous auxiliary rooms.
Since its opening, the Palace of the Republic has been the venue for the most significant events:
• Congresses and forums — the most important political meetings were held here, including congresses of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan.
• Concerts of world-class stars — the stage of the palace has hosted such world-renowned performers as Mstislav Rostropovich, Vladimir Spivakov, Iosif Kobzon, as well as Kazakh performers.
• Festivals and competitions — republican and international festivals are held here annually, including the "Asia Dauysy" (Voice of Asia) festival and the competition for young performers.
• Fashion shows and exhibitions — the spacious halls of the palace also allow for social events.
What Is of Interest to Tourists Today
Today, the Palace of the Republic remains as vibrant and significant as it was on the day it opened. For a tourist, this place can be interesting for several reasons:
• A tour of the palace — you can see the interiors of the main hall, mosaics, and stained glass that reflect the era of the 1970s, and feel the atmosphere of Soviet modernism.
• Concerts and performances — the palace`s poster always features interesting events, from classical music concerts to performances by Kazakh pop stars. Attending an evening concert is a great way to spend an evening in Almaty.
• A walk around the square — the square itself, with its fountains, flower beds, and views of the mountains, is a wonderful place for a stroll. Locals like to meet here, and in the evening, the fountain and palace facade are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Photos with the mountains in the background — the view from the square toward the Trans-Ili Alatau is one of the best in the city. It is an ideal spot for panoramic shots.
• Cafes and restaurants — around the square, there are many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can relax after a walk.
Abay Square is an example of an urban ensemble from the Soviet period, formed in the 1970s–1980s. The Palace of the Republic was built in the style of Soviet modernism with elements of national decor: stained glass, mosaics, and a monumental portico. The monument to Abay was erected in 1960 and later moved to the square to unite the space around the palace. In the 1980s, the ensemble was completed by the Kazakhstan Hotel. Today, the square retains its function as a public center, and the Palace of the Republic remains an active venue for concerts and forums.
