Astana

Astana,[a] formerly known as Nur-Sultan, Akmolinsk, Tselinograd, and Akmola,[15] is the capital and second-largest city of Kazakhstan with a population of 1,350,228 within the city limits after Almaty, which had been the capital until 1997.[16] The city lies on the banks of the Ishim River in the north-central part of Kazakhstan, within the Akmola Region, though administered as a city with special status separately from the rest of the region. Initially founded as Akmoly in 1830, the city was later renamed Akmolinsk, Tselinograd, and Akmola before adopting the name Astana in 1998, which means "capital city" in Kazakh.[16] In 2019, the city briefly adopted the name Nur-Sultan in honor of former president Nursultan Nazarbayev, but it returned to the name Astana in 2022.

Astana’s history is marked by rapid growth, especially after becoming the capital.[17][18] Its transformation into a modern and planned city was guided by a master plan designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa.[19] Today, Astana is known for its futuristic architecture, housing key government institutions like the Akorda Residence, the Parliament House, and the Supreme Court.[20][21][22] It has become an important center for culture, education, and commerce in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

The city is renowned for its modern landmarks, including the Baiterek, which symbolizes Kazakhstan's independence, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, and the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia. The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, designed to host cultural and interfaith events, highlights the city’s role as a hub for dialogue and cooperation. In 2021, Astana was recognized as one of Kazakhstan's 10 priority tourist destinations, reflecting its growing appeal. Visitors can explore cultural venues such as the Astana Opera and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, alongside parks like Presidential Park and Central Park, which offer recreational spaces along the Ishim.

Astana gained international recognition when it hosted the 2011 Asian Winter Games, an event that showcased the city’s ability to organize large-scale sporting events. The city also hosted Expo 2017, a major international exhibition focused on the theme of "Future Energy," which brought global attention to its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Astana is also home to the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, a prominent event that brings together religious leaders from around the world to foster mutual understanding and peace.

The city’s transport infrastructure includes the Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, a key hub for both domestic and international flights. Astana is also well-connected by two railway stations, Astana-1 and Astana-Nurly Zhol, which provide services to major cities across Kazakhstan and beyond. The city's public transport system includes buses, and the planned Astana Light Metro system, currently under construction, is expected to significantly enhance the city’s transport network, offering efficient and sustainable travel within the city.

Astana is home to notable educational institutions, such as Nazarbayev University, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, and Astana IT University, contributing to its role as a hub for education and innovation. These institutions support the city’s growth in technology, research, and higher learning, making Astana an increasingly important center for knowledge and progress in the region.