ZHARKENT
The city of Zharkent is located in the Zhetysu region, 29 km from the Kazakh-Chinese border. The city has historically been an important settlement, and its current form dates back to 1882, when General A.N. Kuropatkin was ordered to build a fortification to protect Russia’s southern borders. In fact, the city’s history spans several hundred years, as evidenced by the ruins of the fortress wall that once protected Zharkent. The city lay on the Great Silk Road, or more precisely, served as a gateway in this part of Kazakhstan for the famous old highway. A battle between the Kazakhs and the Dzungars took place in its vicinity.
Recommended attractions:
The Zharkent Mosque is not just a religious building, but an architectural and historical monument of national significance. This unique mosque was built in 1895. But its uniqueness lies in its architecture. The construction and decoration of the mosque was led by an invited architect from neighboring China, Hon Pike, nicknamed Mukan by the locals. With the support of Uyghur masters H. Imanov, T. Ismailov, and others, Hon Pike created the only pagoda-style mosque in Kazakhstan, and perhaps in the world.
Church of Elijah the Prophet – The building, resembling a printed gingerbread cookie, is visible from all the surrounding areas. Incidentally, this church was designed by architect Sergei Troparevsky. He also designed the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Almaty. Troparevsky also designed the Ascension Cathedral, which contains numerous historical artifacts. An ancient icon of the Mother of God, known as “Joy of All Who Sorrow,” and an icon of St. Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, a miracle worker.
The Singing Dune of Aygaykum is the main attraction of the Altyn-Emel National Park. The Singing Dune is a steep-sided, vegetation-free mound of pure quartz sand. When the dry sand moves, the grains rub against each other, producing a long, loud sound, reminiscent of low singing. This is why the dune was named “Singing.” Such a rare natural phenomenon has been observed in only a few places in the world. The Singing Dune is considered one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Kazakhstan. It was shortlisted for the “New 7 Wonders of Nature” competition, held from 2007 to 2011.
Aulie-Agash is a sacred tree with a diameter of 6.5 meters. To embrace it, six adults would need to join hands. It is believed to be at least 600 years old. Aulie Agash is surrounded by seven elm trees, their branches intertwined. A young grove grows around the tree. The tree branches reach toward the center, toward Aulie Agash, like a magnet. This place has long attracted all who wish to appeal to higher powers, the forces of nature, with their most cherished prayers and wishes.
Chundzha Hot Springs are thermal waters located near the village of Chundzha. The origin of the springs is associated with an ancient volcano that was located in this area 200 million years ago. Over time, the volcano became extinct, but its magma has not lost its power and to this day heats underground waters that erupt to the surface in the form of hot springs. Currently, there are approximately 140 springs here. The village of Chundzha itself appeared in this region at the end of the 19th century thanks to the efforts of settlers.
We also recommend visiting: the Chundzha Museum. Kasteeva, ash grove, architectural and art museum in the mosque