Astana is the heart of Kazakhstan, which jewelry combines modern technology, national traditions and amazing green parks.
Geographical location of Astana
Astana is located in the north of Kazakhstan, on the banks of the Ishim River, and is divided into 6 administrative districts. It is spread out on the steppe plain, on the floodplain terraces. There are several natural and artificial lakes.
The area of Astana city is about 800 km², which makes it the second largest in the country. The climate is sharply continental, with strong temperature fluctuations. In summer the heat can reach +40 degrees, and in winter frosts up to -50 degrees are possible, but the off-season is quite comfortable. This is due to the location of Astana.
Brief history of Astana
The territory of modern Astana was once a crossing point for caravan routes, so settlements have existed here since ancient times. During excavations archeologists found artifacts of the Bronze Age, and the first settlement Bozok dates back to VII-VIII centuries.
In 1830 a small Cossack fortress Akmolinsk was founded, which laid the foundation for the modern history of Astana. In 1868 Akmolinsk region was formed. And in 1961 the city was renamed to Tselinograd and became the most important center for grain supply of the whole country.
Later, in 1992, Tselinograd again became Akmola, and in 1997 - the new capital of Kazakhstan. In 1998, Akmola was renamed Astana. Since then, it has undergone tremendous development, turning into a modern metropolis with a unique architectural appearance. From 2019 to 2022 the city was named Nur-Sultan, but after mass protests it was renamed back.
Demographics of Astana
The population of Astana is over 1.5 million according to 2024 research. The majority are Kazakhs, but there are also other nationalities - Russians, Ukrainians, Tatars, Uzbeks, Germans and more. Due to the fact that the agglomeration of the capital is constantly expanding, the population of Astana is growing.
The main religion is Islam, but there are also enough Christian temples and monasteries. What language is spoken in Astana? The official language is Kazakh, but Russian is widely used in everyday life. English is often spoken in the tourist sector.
Economy and infrastructure of Astana
Astana is the economic center of Kazakhstan with strong positions in finance, construction and IT. The head offices of major national and international companies are located here. Astana and Almaty together account for more than half of Kazakhstan's trade volume.
Industry is concentrated on the production of construction materials, products and machine building. The production of metal structures is also well developed. Due to the existence of the Special Economic Zone, Astana is attractive to investors.
Transportation and architecture of Astana
The pride of Astana is its architecture. The city is growing at a tremendous rate, and leads the entire Republic in terms of construction. The city's infrastructure is also developing rapidly - modern roads, convenient public transportation, a large railway hub and an international airport connecting Astana with cities around the world. Since 2008, navigation has been organized on the Ishim River. Bicycle rental stations are very popular.
Among the unique architectural constructions one can single out the Baiterek, the symbol of the city, resembling the mythical tree of life. As well as futuristic mosque Khazret Sultan and the Palace of Peace and Harmony in the shape of a pyramid, designed by Norman Foster. The mix of traditional motifs and ultra-modern solutions makes Astana's urban landscape truly unique.
Culture and sights of Astana
Astana is not only an economic and business, but also a cultural center. The city regularly hosts major festivals, exhibitions and concerts. Connoisseurs of art will be pleased with the Akmola Regional Philharmonic Society and the Kazakh Musical Drama Theater named after Kalibek Kuanyshpayev. "Astana Opera" and "Astana Ballet" are two of the largest theaters in all of Central Asia.
Astana is famous for its unique sights and museums. For example, the National Space Center or the Museum of Future Energy. Of course, there are also tourist classics - the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Historical and Local History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts are very good.
Large entertainment and shopping centers deserve attention. For example, "Khan Shatyr", which is also an architectural landmark in itself. You should also take a walk along Nurzhol Boulevard with its alley of singing fountains. For nature lovers - Astana Botanical Garden and many green corners throughout the city. The tendency of the steppe area to aridity is compensated by large-scale greening projects. The most famous such project is the Astana Green Belt around the city.
Why visit Astana
The uniqueness of Astana makes it an increasingly attractive tourist destination. That is why every year the question of where Astana is and what kind of country it is sounds less and less often. The past meets the future, and traditions intertwine with innovations - it is impossible to remain indifferent here. Come to Astana to see unique architectural masterpieces, enjoy the national cuisine, feel the hospitality of Kazakhstanis and discover the modern face of Central Asia.
