Welcome
to the new capital of Kazakhstan!
Astana, which means capital , was designated in 1994 to be the
country s new capital. There are about
600, 000 people who call this up and coming urban centre home which is the
second largest in the country. Although
this city is in the midst of a futuristic transformation, its dark history
during the Russian Civil war is not forgotten.
Several camps held prisoners of war and their families. The warmest months of the year to travel here
are between June and August. Astana is
second coldest capital in the world, surviving temperatures between -35C and
-40C. Much of the city is under
construction, building its way to a new future; the centre of Kazakhstan and
perhaps Central Asia. Take a stroll down
the Avenue of the Republic where you will find shops, cafes, shopping, a
hopping night life and casinos. Visit
some of the marvelous architecture such as the Bayterek, Buzok Town, Church of
Constantine and Yelena or the Green Mosque Fence. Take in Astana s history and culture by
visiting one of the many theatres, monuments or museums. Check out a football, basketball or hockey
game if you are into sports. Astana is
making its mark as a growing urban centre, come and see what the excitement is
all about!