North America Capitals Quiz
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🇰🇿 Kazakhstan
Capital: Astana
Astana – Kazakhstan’s modern capital on the Ishim River.
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan and one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing cities. Its modern government district, monumental architecture and cultural institutions reflect the country’s development since the capital moved from Almaty in 1997. The city was officially named Astana in 1998, renamed Nur-Sultan in 2019 and restored to the name Astana in September 2022.
đź“ś Timeline of Astana
1830: The settlement is established as the Akmolinsk fortress.
1961: Akmolinsk is renamed Tselinograd.
1992: The city is renamed Akmola.
1997: Akmola officially becomes the capital of Kazakhstan, replacing Almaty.
1998: The city is renamed Astana.
2019: Astana is renamed Nur-Sultan in honor of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev.
2022: The name Astana is officially restored.
Today: Astana is Kazakhstan’s political and administrative capital and a major economic and cultural center.
đź“Š Quick Stats
Founded
1830
Languages
Kazakh and Russian
Currency
Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Geography
Located in north-central Kazakhstan, along the Ishim River
Time Zone
Kazakhstan Time (UTC+5)
Calling Code
+7
Driving Side
Right-hand traffic
🏛️ Iconic Landmarks
Bayterek Tower
A prominent symbol of Astana inspired by a Kazakh legend about a tree of life and a golden egg.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
A pyramid-shaped building used for conferences, cultural events and international gatherings.
Hazret Sultan Mosque
A major mosque in Astana known for its white marble exterior, domes and traditional decorative details.
Astana reflects Kazakhstan’s modern development while preserving connections to the country’s history and traditions. Its government institutions, cultural venues and distinctive skyline make it an important center in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.
