42 Facts About ASTANA

Astana was officially renamed Nur-Sultan.

In March 2019, Astana was renamed Nur-Sultan in honor of the country’s first President, Nursultan Nazarbayev.

It is the second-largest city in Kazakhstan.

With a population of over one million, Nur-Sultan is the second-largest city in Kazakhstan, right after Almaty.

Astana means “capital city” in Kazakh.

The name Astana translates to “capital city” in the Kazakh language, reflecting its status as the country’s administrative center.

It became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997.

Prior to 1997, Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan. However, the decision was made to move the capital to Astana in order to make it more geographically central and to promote economic development in the region.

Astana is known for its futuristic architecture.

The city is renowned for its stunning modern architecture, featuring unique structures like the Bayterek Tower, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, and the Astana Opera House.

The Bayterek Tower is a symbol of Astana.

Standing at a height of 97 meters, the Bayterek Tower is an iconic landmark in Astana. It represents a mythical tree of life and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Astana hosted the Expo 2017.

In 2017, Astana was the host city for the prestigious World Expo, showcasing various exhibitions and pavilions focused on future energy solutions.

The city has a continental climate.

Astana experiences hot summers and extremely cold winters due to its location in the central part of Kazakhstan.

The Kazakh Eli Monument is located in Astana.

The Kazakh Eli Monument, meaning “Kazakh Nation,” is a prominent landmark in Astana that symbolizes the unity and strength of the Kazakh people.

Astana has its own financial center.

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is a special economic zone that aims to attract investment and promote financial services within Kazakhstan.

Many world leaders have visited Astana.

Astana has hosted numerous international events and summits, attracting world leaders from around the globe.

The city has several prestigious universities.

Astana is home to several renowned universities, including Nazarbayev University and the Kazakh National University of Arts.

Astana has a thriving cultural scene.

The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene with numerous theaters, galleries, and museums that showcase Kazakh heritage and contemporary art.

The Astana Opera House is a world-class venue.

The Astana Opera House is known for its stunning architecture and hosts a wide range of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts and theater productions.

Astana has a large expatriate community.

Due to its status as the capital and economic hub of Kazakhstan, Astana attracts people from all over the world, resulting in a diverse expatriate community.

The city has an extensive public transportation system.

Astana has a well-developed public transportation network, including buses, trams, and a modern subway system.

Astana has hosted international sporting events.

The city has been the venue for various international sporting events, such as the Asian Winter Games and the World Weightlifting Championships.

Astana is known for its winter sports.

Due to its cold winters, Astana offers excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, including ice skating and skiing.

The city has large shopping malls.

Astana is home to several modern shopping malls, providing a wide range of retail and entertainment options for residents and visitors.

Astana is a center for technological innovation.

The city is focused on promoting technological advancements and is home to numerous high-tech companies and innovation centers.

The Presidential Palace is located in Astana.

The Presidential Palace is the official residence of the President of Kazakhstan and is located in the heart of Astana.

Astana has a symbol of peace.

The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, also known as the Pyramid of Peace, is a unique building in Astana that serves as a center for religious and cultural events.

The city has a vibrant nightlife.

Astana offers a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to a variety of tastes.

Astana has a growing film industry.

The city is becoming a hub for the Kazakh film industry, with several film studios and production companies based there.

Astana has hosted the Eurasian Media Forum.

The Eurasian Media Forum, a major international media event, has been held in Astana since 2002, attracting journalists and media professionals from around the world.

The Astana International Airport is a major transportation hub.

The Astana International Airport connects the city with numerous domestic and international destinations, serving as an important transit point.

Astana has a wide range of international cuisines.

The city offers a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, including Kazakh, Russian, Chinese, Indian, and Italian.

Astana has a beautiful riverfront.

The Ishim River flows through Astana, providing picturesque views and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

The city has a striking National Museum.

The National Museum of Kazakhstan showcases the country’s rich history and cultural heritage through its extensive collection of artifacts.

Kazakh is the official language in Astana.

Kazakh is the official language of Kazakhstan and is widely spoken in Astana, although Russian is also commonly used.

The city has a vibrant startup scene.

Astana is becoming a hub for startups and entrepreneurship, with various initiatives and support systems in place to foster innovation.

Astana has a beautiful central park.

The Nurzhol Boulevard, located in the heart of Astana, is a large green space where residents can relax, exercise, and enjoy outdoor activities.

The city is known for its winter festivals.

Astana hosts annual winter festivals, featuring ice sculptures, snowboarding competitions, and traditional Kazakh celebrations.

Astana has a thriving music scene.

The city hosts numerous music festivals and concerts throughout the year, showcasing a variety of genres and attracting both local and international artists.

The city has a modern healthcare system.

Astana has state-of-the-art hospitals and medical facilities, providing quality healthcare services to its residents.

Astana has a stunning central mosque.

The Hazret Sultan Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia, is located in Astana and is a significant religious and cultural landmark.

The city has an annual marathon.

The Astana Marathon is a popular event that attracts runners from around the world, with participants taking on various distances and routes around the city.

Astana is a clean and eco-friendly city.

The city takes pride in its cleanliness and sustainability efforts, with initiatives aimed at preserving the environment and promoting green practices.

Astana has a vibrant fashion scene.

The city hosts fashion shows and events, showcasing the work of local designers and attracting international fashion industry professionals.

The city has a modern skyline.

Astana’s skyline is dominated by sleek skyscrapers and futuristic buildings, creating a striking cityscape.

Astana is a cultural melting pot.

The city is home to people from various ethnic backgrounds, creating a culturally diverse and inclusive environment.

Astana is an ambitious city of the future.

With its rapid development, ambition, and forward-thinking approach, Astana is positioning itself as a leader in innovation and progress.

These 42 facts about Astana highlight the city’s unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From its architectural marvels to its thriving cultural scene, there is no doubt that Nur-Sultan is a city that continues to captivate and inspire. Discover the wonders of Astana for yourself and experience all that this remarkable city has to offer!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Astana is a city filled with fascinating facts and rich history. From its transformation from a small provincial town to the grand capital of Kazakhstan, to its futuristic architecture and international status, there is no shortage of interesting stories to be discovered in this remarkable city. Whether you’re captivated by its iconic landmarks, intrigued by its diverse culture, or simply drawn to the spirit of progress and innovation that permeates the city, Astana has something for everyone. Visiting Astana is not only an opportunity to explore a unique and vibrant urban landscape, but also a chance to witness the power of human vision and determination in shaping the course of a city’s destiny.

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of the name Astana?

A: Astana means “capital city” in Kazakh. It was given this name when it became the capital of Kazakhstan in 1997, replacing Almaty.

Q: How old is Astana?

A: Astana’s history dates back to 1830 when it was established as a small fortress on the Ishim River. However, its transformation into a modern capital city began in the late 20th century.

Q: What is the significance of Astana’s architecture?

A: Astana is known for its unique architecture, featuring a blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional Kazakh design elements. The city’s architectural marvels symbolize its aspirations for progress and serve as a testament to its rapid development.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Astana?

A: Some of the must-visit attractions in Astana include the Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, Astana Opera House, and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. These landmarks showcase the city’s cultural, artistic, and architectural achievements.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Astana?

A: While Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, English is becoming more widely spoken in Astana, particularly in tourist areas and among the younger generation. However, knowing a few basic Russian or Kazakh phrases can still be helpful during your visit.