Karagach Alley painting from 1955 showing a serene tree-lined path by Abram Cherkassky

A. Kasteyev State Museum Of Arts

A Complete Guide to Visiting the A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts, located in the cultural heart of Almaty, is Kazakhstan’s largest and most renowned art institution. Established in 1976 and renamed in honor of the pioneering Kazakh artist Abylkhan Kasteyev in 1984, the museum offers an exceptional window into Kazakhstan’s artistic legacy. Its vast collection—over 25,000 works—bridges Kazakh traditions with Russian, Western European, and East Asian art, reflecting the nation’s role as a crossroads of cultures. This guide provides everything you need to know for a rewarding visit: the museum’s history, collection highlights, visitor information, travel tips, and nearby attractions (gmirk.kz, wikipedia.org, eurasia.travel).

Portrait of Jewish sculptor Issac Itkind by Abram Cherkassky 1959

Nikolay Gavrilovich Khludov portrait by Alexey Bortnikov on Yayla in 1960

Oldness sculpture by Russian sculptor Anna Golubkina

Ancient Chinese calligraphy on yellowed paper with traditional ink brush strokes

Portrait of Grand Duchess Elena Vladimirovna of Russia in historical attire

Sculpture of Zaporozhian Cossack after the Battle by Eugene Alexandrovich Lanceray

Apples of Alma-Ata painting by Evgeniy Sidorkin showing a detailed still life of apples

Portrait of Secretary of State Mikhail Nikolayevich Galkin-Vraskoy in formal attire

Self Portrait with husband Evgeniy Matveyevich Sidorkin and son Vadim Evgenyevich Sidorkin by Gulfayrus Ismailova, 1978

The Legend of the World sculpture by Isaac Itkind 1957

Stormy Sea painting by Ivan Aivazovsky depicting turbulent waves and stormy sky

Female portrait painting by Ivan Kramskoy from 1867

Portrait of Sofia Nikolaevna Kramskaya, wife of artist Ivan Kramskoy, painted in 1871

Pine forest at Ligov's painted by Ivan Shishkin in 1895

Calm of the Evening painting by Julius Sergius von Klever showing a serene landscape at dusk

In the room 1911 painting by Russian impressionist Konstantin Korovin

Sketch of the painting A Boyar Wedding Feast in the XVII century

Portrait of Russian avant-garde artist Sergey Kalmykov painted by Leonid Leontyev in 1946

The kolkhoz bazaar 1940 painting by Leonid Leontyev depicting a bustling Soviet collective farm market scene

Painting of Venetian cityscape with canal and buildings by Lev Lagorio in 1859

Nikolai Nevrev painting titled Moral Suasion depicting emotional family scene

Sketch by Russian artist Nikolay Khludov from 1879 Kulja trip

Ili River near Karnak painting by Nikolay Khludov 1880

Kazakh Duana dervish in traditional attire from Tashkent in 1882 by Nikolay Khludov

Portrait of Alexei Nikolaevich, Tsarevich of Russia around 1913 by Nikolay Khludov

Nikolay Khludov’s travel album featuring historical illustrations and annotations

Portrait of Grand Duchess Anna Pavlovna in elegant attire

Painting The Man with the Order of the Fly by Sergey Kalmykov 1961

Wooden sculpture of Lesovik by Sergey Konenkov in 1917

Stamp of Kazakhstan featuring 'Spring' painting by S. Mambeev from 1964

Kazakhstan 1995 postage stamp featuring painting Kökpar by Kazakh painter K. Telzhanov, issued by Bundesdruckerei, Berlin

Suprematism artwork by Rozanova, 1916 featuring abstract geometric shapes in vibrant colors

Tsarevna painting by M. Nesterov from 1887 depicting a Russian princess in traditional attire

Portrait of Russian Emperor Paul I by unknown artist

Lady with Roses portrait by Victor Borisov-Musatov featuring Sister Elena Borisova-Musatova in 1902

History and Cultural Significance
Architectural Highlights
Collection Overview
Visiting Information
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
Visitor Experience and Facilities
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Travel Tips
Conclusion
References

History and Cultural Significance

The roots of the museum begin in 1935, when the Kazakh State Art Gallery was founded, later supplemented by the Republic Museum of Decorative and Applied Art in 1970. These two merged collections formed the foundation of today’s museum. In 1976, the museum opened in its purpose-built modernist structure, designed by renowned architects Elsa Kuznetsova, Olga Naumova, and Boris Novikov. The institution was renamed in 1984 to honor Abylkhan Kasteyev, the founder of Kazakh professional painting.

As a leading center for preservation, research, and education, the museum not only houses masterpieces but also promotes Kazakhstan’s visual heritage through exhibitions, restoration, and international partnerships. Its status as a monument of republican significance underlines its importance in Kazakhstan’s cultural landscape (gmirk.kz, wikipedia.org).

Architectural Highlights

The museum’s building, completed in 1976, is a striking example of late Soviet modernism. With its expansive galleries, abundant natural light, and a monumental façade, the design encourages contemplation and engagement with art. The site also features a monument to Abylkhan Kasteyev at the entrance, serving as a symbolic focal point.

Additionally, the House-Museum of A. Kasteyev, located at 6-A Bekhozhin Street, preserves the artist’s living and working environment and hosts temporary exhibitions (gmirk.kz).

Collection Overview

The A. Kasteyev State Museum’s holdings are organized into six principal categories, offering a comprehensive panorama of artistic heritage (eurasia.travel):

Kazakh Fine Arts

Paintings, sculptures, and graphic art documenting Kazakh identity and history.
Works by Abylkhan Kasteyev, Nikolai Khludov, Aisha Galimbayeva, and others.

Decorative and Applied Arts

Traditional felt carpets, textiles, jewelry, leatherwork, and woodcarving representing Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage.

Russian Art (18th–20th Centuries)

Masterpieces by Ivan Aivazovsky, Ilya Repin, Isaac Levitan, and others.
Icons and religious art add depth to the collection.

Soviet and 20th-Century Art

Diverse Soviet-era works reflecting artistic and political trends.

Western European Art

Etchings by Rembrandt, engravings by Dürer, Dutch and French paintings, and sculpture.

Eastern Art

Paintings, ceramics, and religious artifacts from China, India, Japan, and Korea.

Temporary exhibitions frequently showcase contemporary Kazakh and international artists (welcome.kz).

Visiting Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: 54, Kabanbay Batyr Street, Almaty, Kazakhstan (some sources also cite 57 Panfilov Street; check the official site for updates).
Easily accessible via public transport, taxi, or on foot from city center landmarks.
Wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Hours and Admission

Open: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last admission 30 minutes before closing).
Closed: Mondays and public holidays.
Tickets: Adults 500–1000 KZT, students/seniors 200–500 KZT, children under 7 free. Special exhibitions may have different rates.
Purchase at the entrance or online (almaty.art).

Facilities

Cloakroom and lockers
Restrooms, café, and museum shop
Free Wi-Fi

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Guided Tours: Offered in Kazakh, Russian, and English; recommended to book in advance. Tours last 60–90 minutes and can be thematic or general.
Workshops and Lectures: Regular programs for adults and children, including art quests, master classes, and creative workshops.
Audio Guides: Available for rent in multiple languages for in-depth exploration (almaty.art).

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Photography: Non-flash photography permitted in most galleries; flash and tripods are prohibited. Professional shoots require prior authorization.
Etiquette: Dress respectfully, store large bags in lockers, and supervise children.
Accessibility: Assistance for visitors with disabilities is available; audio guides and tactile displays offered upon request.
Best Times to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and special events; weekdays and mornings for fewer crowds (best-time.to).

Nearby Attractions

Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
Panfilov Park
Zenkov Cathedral
Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar)
Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby for a full day’s cultural itinerary (Live the World).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available at the entrance or online on the official website.

Q: Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and audio guides.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes. Book in advance for tours in English, Kazakh, or Russian.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in most galleries; professional shoots require permission.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Spring and autumn, or weekdays and mornings for a quieter experience.

Practical Travel Tips

Plan your route: Use public transport or a taxi to reach the museum.
Combine your visit: Explore nearby historical sites for a full cultural day.
Download the Audiala app: For audio guides and interactive maps.
Check museum announcements: For current exhibitions, events, and health protocols.

Conclusion

The A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts stands as a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s cultural identity, offering visitors a journey through centuries of artistic exchange and national heritage. Its accessible location, diverse collections, and engaging programs make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts, history, or Central Asian culture. Enhance your visit with guided tours, digital resources, and by exploring Almaty’s surrounding landmarks.