Astana city
The capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Cities in Kazakhstan

Akmolinsk acquired the status of a town in 1862. It had been famous since long ago for its fairs. Merchants from all regions of Kazakhstan, Russia and Central Asian countries arrived here. As the development of virgin lands began, the town was renamed Tselinograd and typified the administrative center of an agricultural region.

Since acquiring the status of the capital the city's face has changed dramatically. The architects and builders working in the capital create wonderful architectural ensembles, which har moniously combine modern design and oriental color.

The Baiterek Tower has become the city's symbol and its visiting card. The height of the construction is 105 meters. At the mark of 97 meters there is an observa tion deck providing a bird's eye view of the city. The figure of 97 was not chosen at random. It symbolizes the year of moving the capital from Almaty to Astana. The Baiterek Tower accommodates an art gallery, a large aquarium and a restaurant.

Astana becomes one of the big business centers. All governmental organizations, diplomatic missions of 44 countries and 113 joint ventures and foreign businesses are located there.

Every year the city hosts various international industrial exhibitions, con ferences musical contests and festivals of Kaza khstani people.

In 1999 by the decision of UNESCO Astana was awarded the title of World City. The city has an opera and ballet theater, a drama theater and a variety of museums Monuments of Astana are a linking element between the new capital and its history held in esteem by all peoples of Kazakhstan.

Currently many administrative buildings, business and entertainment centers are under construction in Astana. Among them is Duman entertainment complex. It is a place for public recreation featuring an oceanarium , a 3D movie theater, a theater, area for slot machines and interactive games, a multifunctional sideshow venue, bowling, a night club, a casino, a hotel, cafes and restaurants and an indoor aquapark.

Another attraction of Astana is the ethnopark "Map of Kazakhstan - Atameken" representing a unique outdoor museum. The map area of 1.7 hectares features cities and historical memorials of Kazakhstan.

The climate of the region is extreme with typically long and snowy winters. Average January temperature is -14 ° C to 18 °C with dropdown below -40°C. Spring is late but amazing beautiful. It comes at the end of March. At this time steppe looks especially wonderful with its wealth of blooming toffees and tulips. Summers are moderately hot, with lots of showers and dear sunny days. Average Julv temperature is pins 20 ° C to 24 °C.