KOKSHETAU
Kokshetau is the administrative center of the Akmola Region, located in a picturesque spot in northern Kazakhstan, at the foot of the Kokshetau Upland. The city’s name translates as “Blue Mountain” and reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding area: hills covered with pine forests, clear lakes, and a mild climate make this region attractive to travelers.
Recommended attractions:
The Akmola Regional Museum of History and Local Lore, one of the oldest cultural institutions in the region, was founded in 1920 as the Kokshetau Museum of History and Local Lore under the district department of public education, as a museum of visual aids. In January 1945, the district museum became the Kokshetau Regional Museum of History and Local Lore following the formation of the Kokshetau Region in 1944. During that time, the regional museum was given the building of a former mosque in the city center.
Kokshetau History Museum – This historical museum is located on the site of the former cultural and historical center, which during the Soviet era was the Kuibyshev House Museum. Five museum halls condense the entire history of Kokshetau, reflecting its major historical milestones. The building’s architectural appearance reflects the architecture of a century ago. This is a typical urban estate, popular in the late 19th century. During WWII, the building was used as a deep-seated hospital for the treatment of Red Army soldiers.
The Eternal Flame Memorial Complex was built and opened on November 5, 1977. In the center is a statue of a soldier in a raincoat, holding a machine gun, frozen in mournful silence. As a symbol of the memory of the heroism of our fellow countrymen, the Eternal Flame never goes out. The Alley of Heroes of the Soviet Union – residents of Kokshetau and Akmola – leads to the monument.
The Nauan Khazret Mosque – opened in 2015 – is one of the largest in the country. It is crowned by a large gilded dome and six smaller domes, surrounded by four 45.5-meter-tall minarets. The walls are decorated in Arabic tradition and with traditional Kazakh features.
Lake Kopa – The lake and its hills give the city of Kokshetau, located on its shores, a unique appearance. Two rivers flow into the lake, and springs gush from the bottom. Recreation areas are located along the lake’s shores, and the beaches are a favorite swimming spot for adults and children in the summer heat.
We also recommend visiting: the Abylai Khan Monument, the Sh. Kusainov Regional Kazakh Music and Drama Theater, and the monuments to fallen fellow countrymen.