Tag: Алматы

Kazakhstan is a fascinating country with a deep and complex history that reflects its position as a crossroads of civilizations. Historically, it was the land of nomadic tribes who roamed the vast steppe, living in harmony with nature and relying heavily on their herds. Its strategic location meant it was influenced by various empires, including the Mongols and the Russian Empire, which shaped its cultural and political landscape. The 20th century brought dramatic changes as Kazakhstan became part of the Soviet Union, undergoing rapid industrialization and social transformation. Finally, in 1991, Kazakhstan declared independence, stepping into a new era marked by sovereignty and development.

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Kazakhstan’s railway system, the backbone of its vast transportation network, stretches impressively across the sprawling landscapes of Central Asia. With over 16,000 kilometers of rail lines, traversing arid steppes, bustling cities, and remote outposts, these tracks serve both as practical passage for locals and as an adventurous experience for travelers. Trains remain the lifeblood for many communities, offering a reliable and affordable way to cross enormous distances that would be daunting by road. The national operator, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy / Қазақстан темір жолы (ҚТЖ), continuously modernizes the rolling stock and infrastructure, blending traditional charm with growing efficiency.

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Continuous learning about history is a necessity. Even concerning a devastating phase like World War II collective memory is already blurring. In the Western world people start to think, the United States of America have won the war, in other parts of the world Russia is seen as the biggest hero. But we should not forget that it was the entire Soviet Union that paid the highest death toll to slay fascism. The people of Central Asia had a big stake in this, 600,000 Kazakh people died – a significant share of the population. That’s the reason why they remember their soldiers like the 28 Panfilov guardsmen, but there are more stories to share.

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Nestled at the foot of the majestic Tian Shan mountains, Алматы (Almaty, formerly Alma-Ata) is a vibrant city rich in history and culture. Its origins date back to the Bronze Age, with early settlements established by farmers and cattle-breeders thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Алматы evolved through epochs of Saka, Wusun, and Mongol influences, serving as a cultural and trading hub along the Silk Road. In the 19th century, it was officially developed into a city after Russia founded the fort of Verniy. Later, Алматы played a central role as the capital of Soviet Kazakhstan and then of independent Kazakhstan, before the title passed to Астана.

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The Алматы Metro stands out as a modern and architecturally impressive rapid transit system in Kazakhstan’s largest city. Officially opened in 2011 after years of construction beginning in the late Soviet era, it currently features one line with 11 stations stretching about 13.4 kilometers. Each station showcases unique decorative themes that reflect local culture and history, making the metro not only a transport solution but also a cultural attraction in itself. The metro operates daily from early morning until midnight, with trains running every 8 to 15 minutes depending on the time and day, offering a fast and efficient way to navigate through Алматы’s busy urban core.

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