The new capital was unveiled internationally on June 10, 1998. In 1999, Astana was awarded the title of the City of Peace by UNESCO. Since 2000, the capital city of Kazakhstan has been a member of the International Assembly of Capitals and Major Cities.
Astana city is located in the center of Kazakhstan in the dry steppe zone and in the grass steppe subzone. The area of the city stands above the flood plain. The Ishim river is a major waterway of the capital. The city has a continental climate with cold winter and warm summer.
At present, the territory of Astana city makes up more than 722 square kilometers, its population size amounts to more than 1010000 people. The architectural concept of Astana is based on a peculiar Eurasian style reflecting the cultural traditions of both the East and the West. Kisho Kurokawa, a well-known Japanese architect, became the author of the capital’s general layout. The city consists of three districts – Almaty, Saryarka and Yessil.
Today Astana is a city of new opportunities and the center of attraction of active and goal-oriented people. The capital of Kazakhstan is the main educational and scientific platform of the country and aspires to become a regional hub of knowledge, science, and innovations.
The cultural life of a young, in a historical context, the city is interesting and eventful. National and modern arts are harmoniously synthesized in its museums, theatres and concert halls.
