28 Panfilowzy

The Panfilov park in Алматы is one of the city’s most beloved and historically rich green spaces, spanning around 18 hectares in the city center. It dates back to the late 19th century, originally established as a city garden over an old cemetery site. Over decades, the park’s name evolved several times – from Starokladbischensky park to Pushkin garden and Lenin park – before receiving its current designation in 1942. This renaming honored the heroic 28 Panfilov guardsmen, soldiers from Алматы and nearby regions who fought valiantly during World War II.

The story of the 28 Panfilov guardsmen is deeply ingrained in the park’s identity and commemorated throughout the grounds. In November 1941, during the Battle of Moscow, these 28 soldiers of Major General Ivan Panfilov’s 316th rifle division held the line against overwhelming German forces for 36 hours. Despite facing superior numbers and firepower, these young volunteers, many inexperienced, displayed extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice, fighting to their last bullet and breath. Their defense became a symbol of steadfast resistance and has inspired generations in Kazakhstan and across the former Soviet Union.

Dominating the park is the Ascension cathedral, also known as Zenkov cathedral, an extraordinary architectural feat built between 1904 and 1907. Constructed entirely of wood without using a single nail, it is considered the second tallest wooden church in the world. The cathedral’s vibrant multicolored Baroque style façade stands out vividly against the greenery. Inside, visitors can admire exquisite frescoes, icons, and artwork, which reflect the rich Orthodox Christian tradition. Remarkably, thanks to its ingenious earthquake-resistant design, the cathedral survived a major quake in 1911 unscathed, making it a unique historical and cultural monument.

The park itself is more than a memorial; it is a lively public space where locals gather to enjoy leisurely walks, feed birds, and partake in cultural events. Besides the Ascension cathedral, the park houses the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments and several war memorials, including the Eternal Flame and monuments to Panfilov and other war heroes. These elements create a deeply atmospheric space where history, nature, and civic memory converge, making Panfilov park an essential stop for anyone visiting Алматы interested in the city’s past and vibrant present.

Парк имени 28-ми гвардейцев-панфиловцев
Алматы
Kazakhstan

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