Statue of Viktor Tsoy "Zvezda Po Imeni Solntse"

In the heart of Karaganda, there is a unique art object dedicated to a rock music legend. The Viktor Tsoi Monument "A Star Called the Sun" is an original artistic sculpture that has become an important cultural symbol decorating Kazakhstan.

Viktor Tsoi Statue "A Star Called the Sun". Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Architect Dmitry Bykov designed the monument in the form of a stylized solar eclipse, basing it on the cover art of one of the most famous albums by the band Kino. Inside the massive metal disk, a portrait of the musician is carved, which only becomes clearly visible from a certain angle, adding an element of interactivity and mystery to the object.

This four-meter composition is located in a cozy square and serves as a popular meeting point for fans of Viktor Tsoi's work. High ratings and numerous positive reviews confirm that the monument has become a significant point of attraction for both locals and visitors to the city.

For those planning to visit this iconic site, we have gathered up-to-date contact and navigation information. The monument is located in an accessible part of the city, making it easy to include in your walking route. Below are the precise details for your convenience.

The main activity for visitors here is photo hunting for the perfect angle. Thanks to the monument's unique construction, the musician's portrait "appears" only from a specific vantage point, providing a great opportunity for creative photos. This place is ideal for those who want to bring back unusual shots from the city of Karaganda.

Rock music fans can enjoy the special atmosphere of the square, which in a country like Kazakhstan has become a "place of power" for fans. Here, you can listen to your favorite hits in your headphones, sit on a bench in reflection, or meet like-minded people, especially on commemorative dates when Kino fans gather at the monument.

After viewing the sculpture, it's worth taking a stroll along Olympic Street. This quiet area is perfect for thoughtful walks, allowing guests to enjoy the cityscape and get acquainted with the modern street culture and urban improvements of the region.

The monument is located at 8 Olympic Street. The easiest way to get here from central Karaganda is by taxi — the ride will take about 10–15 minutes. For those traveling by private car, parking spaces are available near the square.

If you prefer public transport, use buses or minibuses heading to the "Olympic Street" (Olimpiyskaya Ulitsa) or "Tsoi Square" (Skver Tsoya) stops. Additionally, during the warmer months, it's pleasant to reach the site by bicycle or electric scooter using city rental services, allowing you to combine your visit with a tour of the city's well-maintained streets.

The creation of the monument was initiated by the "Er Nur Nika" foundation, which held a competition for the best project and provided funding. The grand opening took place on August 26, 2017, in the city of Karaganda. The date was chosen deliberately as it coincided with Miner's Day, the region's most important holiday.

The presence of the musician's father, Robert Maksimovich Tsoi, added special significance to the ceremony. Although Viktor himself had never visited this city, his father noted that the atmosphere of the place reminded him of Kyzylorda — the city of his own childhood. This gave the monument's opening a deeply personal and touching tone.

Architect Dmitry Bykov implemented a unique "star within a star" concept, combining the cover of the legendary album with the image of the musician himself. The fact that such a monument appeared in the mining capital underscores the nationwide love for the songs of the band Kino, which continue to unite different generations of listeners.

A visit to this landmark usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes. This is plenty of time to leisurely view the composition from all sides, find the right angle for a portrait shot, and soak in the atmosphere of the place.

If you decide to stay in the square longer to listen to music or just relax on a bench, time can fly by unnoticed. Overall, the site is perfect for a short themed stop during a sightseeing tour of Karaganda.

One of the advantages of this site is its total accessibility. The Viktor Tsoi Monument "A Star Called the Sun" is open to visitors 24/7, seven days a week. There are no fences, entrance fees, or strict schedules, so you can visit the monument at any convenient time.

Many prefer to visit the square during the day to better see the details of the metal structure and take clear photographs; however, in the evening, under the glow of the streetlights, the monument looks very striking and symbolic.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you get to know the city of Karaganda and its multifaceted culture. Within a few kilometers of the Tsoi monument, you'll find other interesting sites, ranging from Soviet mosaics to modern recreation areas.

The proximity of historical monuments and entertainment venues makes this area an excellent starting point for a full tourist itinerary. Here is a list of nearby attractions: