Kurmanzhan Datka Statue
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Kurmanjan Datka Monument

4.5
·36 reviews·Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

A powerful bronze statue honoring Kurmanjan Datka, a revered 19th-century Kyrgyz leader, set within a tranquil oak park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
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Kurmanzhan Datka Statue

Kurmanjan Datka Monument

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A powerful bronze statue honoring Kurmanjan Datka, a revered 19th-century Kyrgyz leader, set within a tranquil oak park.

4.5
(36 reviews)

"An impressive and well-kept statue, a symbol of Kyrgyz resilience and leadership."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunset for breathtaking photos of the monument bathed in warm light.

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Strolls

Enjoy a quiet walk through the surrounding oak park for a relaxing experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kurmanjan Datka Statue

Kurmanjan Datka Statue

An imposing bronze statue of the revered 'Queen of the South,' a symbol of Kyrgyz resilience and leadership.

Oak Park Surroundings

Oak Park Surroundings

A serene green space offering a peaceful escape, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the local atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect the Legacy

This monument honors Kurmanjan Datka, a pivotal 19th-century Kyrgyz leader. Visitors should approach with respect for her historical significance and the cultural heritage she represents. It's a place for quiet reflection rather than boisterous activity.

Best Time for Photos

Golden hour light can make the monument and surrounding park truly shine. Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early morning for the most picturesque shots, especially if you're aiming for that perfect Instagram moment.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Early morning
Why
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

КурманжанДатка🎞️🇰🇬 #кыргызкино #кыргызскиефильмы
@kyrgyz_soul
22.9K likes • 323.4K views

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunset for breathtaking photos of the monument bathed in warm light. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Strolls

Enjoy a quiet walk through the surrounding oak park for a relaxing experience. Reddit

👑 Learn Her Story

Research Kurmanjan Datka beforehand to appreciate her historical impact. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunset for breathtaking photos of the monument bathed in warm light. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Strolls

Enjoy a quiet walk through the surrounding oak park for a relaxing experience. Reddit

👑 Learn Her Story

Research Kurmanjan Datka beforehand to appreciate her historical impact. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Kurmanjan Datka Monument as an impressive tribute to a significant historical figure. The surrounding park is noted for its tranquility and beauty, offering a peaceful escape. While not a bustling tourist hub, it's a place of cultural importance and quiet reflection.

"(1-Kurmanzhan Datka Statue
(2-Memorial For Red Guards
Kurmanjan was born into a rich family of the Mungush clan in the Osh region. At the age of 18 she was supposed to be married to a man whom she did not see until her wedding day. When she met him, she did not like him and broke with tradition — first fleeing into neighboring China and later deciding to stay with her father, Mambatbai. In 1832, the local feudal lord, Alimbek, who had taken the title "Datka" and ruled all the Kyrgyz of the Alai, was attracted by the young, vivacious woman and married her. An instrumental politician in the increasingly decrepit Kokand khanate, Alimbek was murdered in the course of a palace coup in 1862 and his widow Kurmanjan was recognized by the khans of Bukhara and Kokand as ruler of the Alai and given the title of "Datka".[2]

In 1876 the Alai region was annexed by the Russian Empire. Recognizing the futility of resistance, Kurmanjan Datka persuaded her people to accept Russian overlordship. During the subsequent continuing unrest and sporadic attempts by the local population to shake off Russian supremacy, gun-running and smuggling were profitable businesses and two of Kurmanjan's sons and two of her grandsons were charged with contraband trade and murdering customs officials.[3] When her favourite son was sentenced to death, she refused the urging of some of her followers to effect a rescue, saying that she would not let her private hopes and ambitions be the cause of suffering for her people; she actually attended her son's public execution. The others were then exiled to Siberia and she essentially retired from public life.[citation needed]

Soon after Kurmanjan-datka became a hermit, she was reported to the emperor Nicholas II, and he decided to give her a special royal gift — a gold ladies' watch with the image of the state emblem of the empire with a chain and brooch, decorated with diamonds and roses. Accompanied by numerous mounted guards, the Osh district chief arrived in the village of Mady, solemnly presenting the "Queen of the South" with a gift from the emperor.

In 1906, she was visited by Baron Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim (later President of Finland) who was a colonel in the Russian army at the time. Mannerheim took her photograph. She died six months later.[2] Kurmanjan Datka lived to be well over 96 and was survived by two sons, two daughters, 31 grandsons, 57 great grandsons and six great-great-grandsons.[citation needed]

Kurmanjan-datka died on February 1, 1907, at her home in Mady. She was buried in Osh next to her son Kamchibek, who was executed in 1895. #bishkek #kyrgyzstan #osh #kg #talas #bishkekcity #jalalabad #batken #uzbekistan #naryn #bishkeklife #amg #almaty #tashkent #kazakhstan #kgz #russia #kyrgyz #video #bishkekshopping #fashionbishkek #live #astana #omks #moscow #love #akhunzadazubairkhan #dubai #KurmanjanDatka"

Akhunzada zubair (khan)

"Kurmanjan Datka (Kyrgyz: Курманжан Датка) or Datka Kurmanjan Mamatbay kyzy (22 may, 1811; Orok, Pamir Alai, Osh Region, Khanate of Kokand – 1 February 1907; Mady, Fergana Region, Russian Empire), also known as "The Tsaritsa of Alai" (The Queen of Alai) or "The Queen of the South", was a politician in Kyrgyzstan who acquiesced under duress to the annexation of that region to Russia. She was a female tribal leader and nicknamed Queen.

If she is familiar, that's because she is featured in one of the Kyrgyzstani Som bills.

Kind of reminds me of Olena Tyrell of Game of Thrones."

Rock Merjudio

"A statue was erected to commemorate Kurmanzhan Datka, a well known and well respected female Kyrgyzstan leader in the 19th century. A movie has also been made about her"

CK Cheong

What People Like

Impressive statue
Peaceful park
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The monument is located in Osh, Kyrgyzstan. Taxis are readily available and are the most convenient way to reach the site from anywhere in the city. Public transport options might be available but can be less direct. Reddit

Yes, the monument is accessible by car, with parking typically available nearby. It's a well-known landmark, so most local drivers will know the way. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to visit the Kurmanjan Datka Monument itself or the surrounding park. It's a public space for reflection and appreciation. Reddit

The monument and park are typically open to the public from early morning until late evening, allowing for visits at most times of the day. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs. The late afternoon light is particularly praised. TikTok

There are generally no specific restrictions on personal photography at the monument or in the park. However, always be respectful of other visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Kurmanjan Datka (1811-1907) was a powerful female political leader in Kyrgyzstan, known as the 'Queen of the South' or 'Tsaritsa of Alai.' She played a crucial role in navigating the region's annexation by the Russian Empire. Reddit

The monument commemorates her significant historical role and is a symbol of Kyrgyz national pride and female leadership. She is even featured on the Kyrgyzstani Som bills. Reddit

Yes, a historical film titled 'The Kurmanjandatka' was made about her life and is available on YouTube with English subtitles, offering deeper insight into her story. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Kurmanjan Datka Monument and its surrounding park offer a gentle introduction to Kyrgyz history for families. While the monument itself is a solemn tribute, the adjacent oak park provides a safe and open space for children to run around and enjoy nature. It's a good spot for a family picnic or a relaxed afternoon stroll. Reddit

Consider discussing the story of Kurmanjan Datka in simple terms with older children to make the visit more educational. The visual of the large statue can be quite engaging for younger ones. It's a low-key attraction that doesn't require extensive planning, making it a convenient stop for families exploring Osh. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Kurmanjan Datka Monument offers excellent opportunities, especially during the golden hours. The bronze statue has a commanding presence, and the interplay of light and shadow can create dramatic shots. The surrounding park also provides a softer, natural setting for portraits or landscape elements. TikTok

Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the monument and its historical gravitas. The park's greenery can offer a nice contrast to the metallic sheen of the statue. Early mornings are ideal for capturing a serene atmosphere with fewer people, while late afternoons provide that sought-after warm, inviting light. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Kurmanjan Datka

Kurmanjan Datka was a formidable figure in 19th-century Kyrgyzstan, earning the titles 'Queen of the South' and 'Tsaritsa of Alai.' Born into a wealthy family, she defied tradition, eventually marrying Alimbek Datka, a powerful ruler. After his assassination, she was recognized as a leader in her own right, skillfully navigating the complex political landscape as the Russian Empire expanded into the region. Her decision to accept Russian overlordship, though difficult, is seen by many as a strategic move to protect her people from further conflict. Reddit

Her life was marked by both political acumen and personal sacrifice. She famously chose not to intervene when her son was sentenced to public execution, prioritizing the well-being of her people over personal desires. This act of stoicism cemented her reputation as a leader dedicated to her community. Her story is a testament to female strength and resilience in a patriarchal era, and she remains a revered national hero in Kyrgyzstan. Reddit

Today, her legacy is honored through various memorials, including the prominent statue in Osh. She is also immortalized on the Kyrgyzstani Som banknotes, a constant reminder of her enduring impact on the nation's history and identity. Reddit

Visiting the Monument and Park

The Kurmanjan Datka Monument is an impressive bronze statue that stands as a powerful tribute to the historical figure. It's a place that evokes a sense of national pride and historical reflection for many visitors. The statue itself is a significant landmark, often serving as a central point for local gatherings and celebrations. Reddit

Adjacent to the monument is a pleasant oak park, offering a tranquil environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. This green space is ideal for a leisurely walk, a quiet moment of contemplation, or simply to escape the bustle of the city. The park provides a serene backdrop to the historical monument, making the visit a well-rounded experience that combines history with natural beauty. Reddit

Many visitors find the combination of the imposing statue and the peaceful park to be a compelling reason to visit. It's a place where one can learn about Kyrgyz history while also enjoying a moment of calm. The area is well-maintained, contributing to a positive and respectful atmosphere for all who come to pay their respects or simply explore. Reddit

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