Almaty

Almaty (Kazakh: Алматы/Almatı) is the largest city and former capital of Kazakhstan. It served as capital of the Kazakh SSR from 1929 until 1991, and then as the capital of independent Kazakhstan from 1991 to 1997.

Almaty has been known by various names throughout its history. Under the Russian Empire from 1867 to 1921, it was known as Верный/Verný. Under the Soviet Union from 1921 to 1993 it was called Алма-Ата�(Alma-Ata). The city covers 324.8 sq km (125.4 sq mi) and has a population of 1.4 million people (2012 estimate).

The history of Almaty has been traced to the Bronze Age between 1000 and 900 BC. Its modern history began when the Russians built Fort Verniy in the area in 1854. It lost its status as national capital in 1997, when the capital was transferred to Astana. Since then, Almaty is regarded as the regional capital of southern Kazakhstan.

Since Kazakhstan independence, Almaty has seen rapid modernization. A plan is in place to develop the city in an ecologically friendly manner. The city inaugurated its subway system on 1 December, 2011 with construction of new lines expected to open in the near future. Almaty is becoming a regional financial center with the construction of the Almaty Financial District and Esentai Park.


Almaty, Kazakhstan