Nur-Sultan

Nur-Sultan. The capital city of Kazakhstan, it stands as a planned metropolis and a major political and economic hub in Central Asia. Originally founded as a Tsarist military outpost, it was transformed into a national capital in the late 20th century under the directive of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The city is renowned for its futuristic architecture, hosting significant institutions like the Supreme Court of Kazakhstan and the National Bank of Kazakhstan, and serves as a symbol of the nation's modern aspirations.

History

The settlement was founded in 1830 as a Cossack military fortification named Akmolinsk under the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, it was renamed Tselinograd in 1961 as the center of the Virgin Lands Campaign led by Nikita Khrushchev. Following the Dissolution of the Soviet Union and Kazakhstan's independence, it became Akmola and was designated the new capital in 1997, replacing Almaty. In 1998, it was renamed Astana, and in 2019, it received its current name in honor of Nursultan Nazarbayev. Key historical developments include hosting the international exhibition EXPO 2017 and the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.

Geography and climate

The city is situated in the northern part of Kazakhstan on the banks of the Ishim River, within the vast Kazakh Steppe. Its geography is characterized by flat, open plains. It experiences an extreme continental climate with very cold, dry winters, where temperatures can plummet below -30°C, and hot, moderately dry summers. This climate is similar to that of Omsk and Novosibirsk in neighboring Siberia. The Ishim River serves as a major hydrological feature, with the Nur-Sultan Waterfront being a key development along its shores.

Demographics

Nur-Sultan has one of the fastest-growing populations in Central Asia, driven by continuous internal migration and government relocation programs since becoming the capital. The city is multi-ethnic, with a majority of Kazakhs and significant minorities including Russians, Ukrainians, Tatars, and Uzbeks. Major religious communities include followers of Islam, predominantly Sunni Islam of the Hanafi school, and the Russian Orthodox Church. Key population centers within the city include the left-bank districts and newer developments like the EXPO area.

Economy

As the national capital, the city's economy is dominated by government, administration, and the service sector, hosting headquarters of major state-owned companies and financial institutions like the National Bank of Kazakhstan and the Samruk-Kazyna sovereign wealth fund. It is a center for construction, real estate, and trade, with major projects often backed by foreign investment from countries like China, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. The Astana International Financial Centre operates under English common law to attract foreign capital. Key economic events include hosting EXPO 2017, which boosted tourism and infrastructure.

Culture and landmarks

The city is famous for its bold, modern architecture, with landmarks designed by architects like Norman Foster and Kisho Kurokawa. Iconic structures include the Bayterek tower, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, the Khan Shatyr entertainment center, and the Hazret Sultan Mosque. It hosts major cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the Astana Opera, and the Nur-Astana Mosque. The city is a venue for international events like the Astana Ballet festival and previously hosted the EXPO 2017 exhibition.

Government and administration

Nur-Sultan holds the special status of a "city of republican significance," administered separately from the surrounding Akmola Region. The city's chief executive is the Akim (mayor), appointed by the President of Kazakhstan, currently Altai Kölginov. It houses all branches of the national government, including the Parliament of Kazakhstan (the Mazhilis and the Senate), the Supreme Court of Kazakhstan, and the Ak Orda Presidential Palace. The city is divided into administrative districts, including Almaty District and Saryarka District.