Bayterek Tower - The golden egg on top of the tree of life -, Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan

The golden sphere on top of the Bayterek Tower (also observation desk)

BAYTEREK is a monument located in Astana, the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It is an observation tower and a popular attraction for all tourists (locals and foreigners). The Kazakh word "bayterek" translates literally to mean "toll poplar" as in the tree.

The construction started in October 1996 and was completed in August 2002, 14 years later. The building is 105 meters tall with a gold -mirrored of 22 meters diameter sphere.

The design meant to embody a folktale a mythical tree of life and a magic bird of happiness. The bird (called Samruk) had laid its egg in the sacred tree of life.

An observation deck is located a the top of the tower where you can also place your hand in a print of President NAZARBAEV's palm, the first president following the independence from the Soviet Union in December 1991.

The Hand print of President NAZABAEV's palm