Atameken Ethno-Memorial Map of Kazakhstan
About This Museum
Atameken isn't your typical museum; it's a sprawling, open-air map of Kazakhstan you can literally walk across. The concept is its genius, condensing the vast expanse of the entire nation into a single, park-like space where miniature versions of its most iconic landmarks stand shoulder-to-shoulder. You'll find yourself strolling from the minarets of ancient Turkestan to the hyper-modern curves of Astana's Bayterek Tower in just a few steps. It’s a breathtakingly ambitious project that makes the country's rich history and diverse geography feel intimate and accessible.
Collection Highlights
The collection is a journey through time and terrain, featuring incredibly detailed 1:500 scale models. You can peer at the ornate facade of the Khodja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, then turn to see a tiny, perfect replica of an Altai mountain range. The contrast between Soviet-era industrial monuments in Karaganda and the gleaming new government buildings of the capital is particularly striking, telling a silent story of national evolution.
Visitor Information
Wear comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking—this is an outdoor experience best enjoyed on a pleasant day. It feels less like a formal museum visit and more like a fascinating stroll through a condensed version of the country, perfect for getting a quick yet profound sense of Kazakhstan's identity.
Architecture & Building
The 'building' is essentially the landscaped terrain of Kazakhstan itself, recreated in miniature. Pathways snake between regions, with models placed directly on the ground, making you feel like a giant exploring a living, topographic map.
