Astana

in

Astana stands on the open plains of northern Kazakhstan, where a modest provincial city was transformed into a national capital from the late 1990s onward. The newer centre contains monumental government buildings, towers and large public spaces designed to project a modern state identity. Older districts across the river retain a more conventional mix of housing, markets and commercial streets.

Distances are large and the city is arranged around major roads and planned axes rather than a compact historic core. Indoor malls and cultural venues become especially important during the severe winter, while summer brings activity to riverfront parks and open squares. The contrast between ambitious architecture and the vast surrounding steppe is central to the city’s character.