Shymkent

Shymkent (Kazakh: Шымкент) is a city on the southern part of Kazakhstan. It serves as the capital of South Kazakhstan Province. The city covers 347 sq km (134 sq mi) and has a population of 638,000 people (2012 estimate). It is the third largest city in Kazakhstan behind Almaty and Astana.


View of Shymkent, Kazakhstan, at the junction between Tauke-khan Avenue and Konaev Boulevard


Shymkent traces its beginnings to the 12th century, when it was established as a caravanserai on the Silk Road towards the town of Sayram, some 10 km to the east. Through its long history, it came under various powers including Genghis Khan, the Khanate of Kokand, the Emirate of Bukhara and eventually the Russian Empire, from 1864.

Shymkent was known by various named through its history. It was called Chernyaev in 1914 but became known as Shymkent from 1924. During Soviet rule, it was known in Russian as Чимкент (Chimkent) until 1993, when the independent government of Kazakhstand began using the name Shymkent once more.

Sights & Attractions to visit in Shymkent

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