Astana means "capital" in Kazakh. After becoming the capital of Kazakhstan 29 years ago, the city earned the nickname "Golden Gate to Eurasia." Once a small settlement on trade routes, it rapidly grew into a major regional hub for foreign investments. As the second coldest capital in the world, it is now a center for political, economic, and sports events.
An ambitious city of dreams. From the airport to the hotel, wide streets and modern architecture impressed me. The driver said, "Astana is a city of the future, a city of dreams. It develops and flourishes every day." Skyscrapers, modern parks, fountains, and monuments adorn the capital.
Astana owes its development to former president Nursultan Nazarbayev. The city has set an ambitious but achievable goal: to become one of the most beautiful capitals in the world.
Guests are introduced to iconic sites like the Hazret Sultan Mosque, Nazarbayev University, Bayterek Tower, Akorda Palace, Khan Shatyr, and the "Kazakh Eli" monument. These enrich impressions of the city.
The National Museum is not just a collection of exhibits but a center of culture, science, and inspiration. It houses over 200,000 exhibits and attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually.
The museum's 16 halls showcase the legacy of prominent historical figures. The Golden Hall displays unique finds of ancient nomads, including the "Golden Man" from the Issyk kurgan.
Astana blends nomadic culture with futuristic architecture. 2026 is declared the "Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence" in Kazakhstan. The "Center of the Future: alem.ai" AI Museum operates as a technology and AI experience center.
Visitors can chat with AI. Virtual guide Ayla answers questions and guides through the museum. The main exhibition focuses on AI's impact on the future and society. Legendary computers like Apple II and IBM are on display.
Upper floors house the "TUMO Astana" creative technology center, teaching programming and robotics to teenagers. Classes are completely free. The center presents the "City of the Future" platform.
