One of the favorite vacation spots for residents of the city of Almaty (Kazakhstan) is Central Park. Its history goes back over 150 years. This recreation area is interesting for both children and adults, as the entertainment infrastructure is quite diverse.
Gorky Park in Almaty (Culture and Leisure Park), abundant in the summer with fragrant greens, is filled with a calm and pleasant atmosphere, which attracts a huge number of people who want to take a break from everyday hustle and bustle.
From the history
One of the most popular places in Almaty is Gorky Park. Initially, it had the name "State Garden". A park was laid in the floodplain of the river. Mala Almatinka in 1856. This territory has become a place for walking and resting officers of the Vernensky military garrison. Here at that time coniferous and deciduous trees were planted.
Thanks to scientific studies of the climate and soil conditions of the park, scientists concluded that not only Central Asian plants, but also practically all types of vegetation that are typical for Central Russia can grow in the "State Garden". In this regard, in 1868, seedlings and seeds were delivered to the park from the Nikitsky Botanical Garden and from the gardening schools of Tashkent and Penza.
The park was reconstructed in 1934. In the coastal part of the reservoir deepened in the territory of the park, recreation centers for workers were built and various attractions were equipped. An irrigation system was also created for almost its entire territory. The eastern part was taken under a small zoo, which exists today, although it occupies a much larger territory.
Since 1935, the park changed its name and began to bear the name of A. M. Gorky. Today, some of its destruction is observed, but still here, as before, people are going to rest.
Modern park: description
Gorky Park in Almaty is attractive for all age categories. There are attractions, carousels, sports grounds, a cinema and a beautiful water park. Those who want to try the Kazakh national cuisine and just have a snack can visit any cafe or snack bar. For children and adults there is a nice tourist train service, constantly plying throughout the park. You can also see a wide variety of sculptural compositions, among which there are quite bizarre, very original ones.
There are pools, a jacuzzi and saunas in the park with a certain payment. Green lawns are intended for fans of active sports (ball games). Many ride bikes and roller skates on special tracks. From the Ferris wheel you can see a beautiful panorama of Almaty. Gorky Park today is a great place for an exciting pastime with the whole family, and it is worth a visit.
The local artists, who paint their paintings along the shore of a beautiful lake, also make a beautiful appearance in the picturesque area. On boats and catamarans on it you can take a romantic walk. There are quite a lot of fountains in the park, bringing a pleasant coolness in the summer heat.
Of special interest to young children are slides and playgrounds. Fans of thrills can try extreme rides.
A little bit about the zoo
There is a zoo in Gorky Almaty Park, reviews of which, especially among children, are the best. It occupies an area of 32 hectares, and in order to fully inspect it, you need to spend a couple of hours, or maybe more. In addition to exotic animals, the park has an aquarium, terrarium and exotarium.
Not only in children, but also in adults, after visiting this zoo, there are many bright, unforgettable impressions.
The zoo often hosts various events aimed at decorating the rest of visitors and attracting more attention to their important work. They are dedicated to state, religious and public holidays. Even the days of some animals are celebrated (for example, World Bird or Polar Bear Days). Also here you can visit concerts, lectures and exhibitions.
The zoo operates from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., while the working hours of Gorky Park in Almaty are daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Interesting Facts
During the Soviet Union, cars were strictly forbidden to enter the park. Only special irrigation vehicles were allowed to travel on the territory.
The monument to Maxim Gorky, who was earlier in the park, was moved to another place - to the public garden behind the Sary-Arka cinema.
