Kazakhstan

Astan ("the shining king"; formerly Akmoolinsk, Tselinograd, Akmola, Astana, Nur-Sultan) has been the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan since December 10, 1997. At the start of 2020, its population numbered 1,136,156. in fact the second most populous city in Kazakhstan after Almaty. Nur-Sultan is located in the north of the country, on the banks of the Ishim River.
The area of ​​the territory of the city is 797.33 km²

The city of Turkestan is not just a historical heritage, it is a living witness to the grandeur and beauty of ancient Central Asia. Located among the arid steppes of the extreme south of Kazakhstan, it is a place where every stone, every corner is imbued with the spirit of ancient times.

The first ancient settlement on the territory of modern Turkestan appeared in the early VI century BC. Over time, the city became one of the most important centers of culture, religion and trade in the region, attracting travelers and pilgrims with its shrines and history.

Since its foundation by the kingdom of Kokand in 1820 and until its capture by the Russian troops in 1852, the fort was called Ak-Mechet (Ak-Meshit). Thus, the Count Vassili Perovski and General of the cavalry of Emperor Alexander II, took control of the southern borders of the Empire and dominated the khanate of Kokand. Fort Perovski takes its name in 1862, then Perovski city until 1925, when it will be named Kyzylorda (Kyzyl Orda in Kazakh means the red capital).

The city of Taraz, which is located in the south - west part of the Zhambyl Oblast, on the left bank of the Talas River. The population of the city is over 348,900 people. The distance from Taraz to Bishkek is 1,255 km.