Baiterek Monument

Baiterek is the best-known symbol of Astana. It was built to commemorate the transfer of Kazakhstan's capital from Almaty to Astana and rises above Nurjol Boulevard in the modern left-bank part of the city.

The monument carries several symbols from Kazakh nomadic culture. Baiterek means a poplar or Tree of Life, with roots supporting the earth and a crown reaching toward the heavens. The golden sphere represents the sun, or the egg of the sacred bird Samruk in the traditional story.

Inside the tower, visitors can go up to observation levels for wide views of Astana. In the golden sphere, the hand imprint of Kazakhstan's first president is presented as part of the monument's state symbolism. The tower's height and the observation level are often connected with 1997, the year when Astana became the capital.

Baiterek works best as part of a central walking route. Start or finish on Nurjol Boulevard, continue toward fountains and landscaped alleys, and connect the monument with Akorda views and Khan Shatyr.