Kazakh Eli Monument

A tall white marble column on Independence Square in Astana, crowned by a gilded figure of the mythical Samruk bird and standing around ninety metres high. Erected to celebrate Kazakhstan's statehood, its base is encircled by bronze relief panels illustrating key episodes from the nation's history and everyday life. The monument forms a visual anchor for the ceremonial plaza and is illuminated at night. Visitors often photograph it from the steps of the adjacent national museum for a symmetrical composition.