Astana

Astana (officially known as Nur-Sultan from 2019 to 2022) is the capital city of Kazakhstan. It is located in the northern part of the country, within the Akmola Region. Astana has a population of over one million people, making it the second-largest city in Kazakhstan after Almaty.

History

Astana was founded in 1830 as a settlement named Akmolinsk. It became a city in 1862. During the Soviet era, the city was renamed Tselinograd in 1961 and served as a center for the Virgin Lands Campaign. After Kazakhstan gained independence in 1991, the city was renamed Akmola. In 1997, the capital of Kazakhstan was moved from Almaty to Akmola, and in 1998, the city was renamed Astana, which means "capital" in Kazakh. In 2019, the city was renamed Nur-Sultan in honor of the first President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev. However, in 2022, the city reverted to its previous name, Astana.

Geography

Astana is situated on the banks of the Ishim River, in the central part of Kazakhstan. The city experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The terrain around Astana is mostly flat, with steppe landscapes dominating the region.

Economy

Astana is a major economic hub in Kazakhstan. The city's economy is driven by various sectors, including construction, trade, and services. Astana has seen significant investment in infrastructure and urban development, transforming it into a modern metropolis. The city is also home to the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), which aims to attract international investment and promote financial services.

Culture and Landmarks

Astana is known for its futuristic architecture and modern landmarks. Some of the notable structures in the city include:

• Bayterek Tower: A symbol of Astana, representing a mythical tree of life.
• Khan Shatyr: A large transparent tent-like structure that serves as a shopping and entertainment center.
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: A pyramid-shaped building designed by architect Norman Foster.
• Astana Opera: A prominent opera house in the city.

The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.

Education

Astana is home to several higher education institutions, including Nazarbayev University, which is known for its research and academic programs. The city also has numerous schools and colleges that provide education in various fields.

Transportation

Astana has a well-developed transportation network. The city is served by the Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, which connects it to various domestic and international destinations. Public transportation in Astana includes buses, taxis, and a light rail system that is currently under development.

Sports

Astana is a center for sports in Kazakhstan. The city has several sports facilities, including the Astana Arena, which hosts football matches and other events. Astana is also home to the professional cycling team Astana Pro Team.

Government and Administration

As the capital of Kazakhstan, Astana is the political center of the country. It houses the Akmola Region's administrative offices, as well as the Parliament of Kazakhstan, the Presidential Palace, and various government ministries and agencies.

See Also

• Kazakhstan
• Almaty
• Akmola Region
• Nursultan Nazarbayev