Kostanay is a city that is the scientific, cultural and industrial center of Kazakhstan. From a small settlement located near the Tobol River, in a relatively short period of time, it turned into a prosperous settlement. Its history began in 1879, when the first settlers appeared on the banks of the Tobol. They came here from various provinces.
The article presents the most interesting sights of Kostanay (photo and description), but first a short digression into history.
A brief history of the development of Kostanay
The history of this settlement begins in 1879. At that time, a small settlement of Russians and Ukrainians formed on the left bank of the Tobol River, which in 1893 was given the status of a city with the name Nikolaevsk. A rapidly developing settlement at the beginning of the 20th century turned into a large trade and fair center among the Kazakh steppes.
It is curious that there is a brewery in this city,built at the beginning of the 20th century at the expense of a Swiss. At that time, it was the largest in the entire Southern Urals and throughout Kazakhstan. This is one of the oldest buildings in the city.
A church, courthouses and schools, as well as other public facilities were built on the territory of the city. The population by 1913 was 28,300 people. The main activity is agriculture.
One of the major administrative centers and the largest supplier of grain crops in Kazakhstan is Kostanay. There are many sights in this city, both architectural and historical. It is a modern city covering an area of 240 sq. km. The population is approximately 220 thousand people.
Origin of the name
The settlement, having become in 1895 a county town belonging to the Turgai province, was renamed and became known as Kostanai.
This word, translated from Kazakh, means "the parking lot of the Kazakh tribe." It arose from two components: “kos”, which translates as “yurt”, and “tanai” - “Kazakh tribe”.
City features
The main direction of development of Kostanay is industry. Mechanical engineering, textile production are well developed here, there are confectionery and food factories. Soviet era buildings are combined with new modern buildings and shopping and entertainment complexes.
Such sights of Kostanay, as original sculptural original compositions, perfectly complement the appearance of the city. Herethere are quite well-groomed picturesque lawns and wonderful fountains. Comfortable restaurants and hotels have been built in various districts. The main part of the population is Kazakhs, Russians and Ukrainians.
Sights of the city of Kostanay
Among the cultural attractions, one can especially single out the regional Kostanay Museum of Local History, which houses 109 thousand exhibits. Unique finds of the Bronze Age and the Stone Age are presented here. Since 1995, the museum has occupied the premises of a building that is an architectural monument of the early 20th century.
Kazakh Regional Drama Theatre. Omarova and the Russian Drama Theater are the cultural sights of the city, and the buildings themselves have important architectural significance. They play a big role in the life of not only Kostanay, but the whole state, participating in various national and international festivals.
The entire territory of the city is decorated with monuments, among which there are quite interesting architectural designs. For example, a monument to Charlie Chaplin or a girl with a laptop. The monument to the Conquerors of Virgin Lands, installed on one of the squares of the city, is dedicated to people who participated in the development of virgin lands.
Among the modern attractions of Kostanay (the photo is presented in the article), which are not only the decoration of the city, but also the most favorite vacation spots, you can include the Octopus water park and the Ice Palace. They are very popular with young people.
Tobol embankment
The embankment of the Tobol River, which has become a favorite vacation spot not only for local residents, but also for guests of the city, was built quite recently.
After opening, this area has become a wonderful place for walking in the summer. Here you can ride on a steamer, catamarans and boats. There is a magnificent promenade along the river, decorated with various sculptures and flowers.
Parks
Central Park is a landmark of Kostanay. It is located in the central part of the city. It can be called the heart of the city, as it is a favorite vacation spot for residents and guests of Kostanay, and a venue for various festive events. In the summer, there is a cinema and attractions, and fountains bring freshness in hot weather.
Another recreational area is Victory Park, located not in the city center. In terms of comfort and beauty, it is in no way inferior to its central counterpart. It enchants with its silence and green lawns. Recently, real military equipment was installed here.
Mosque "Maral Ishan"
This magnificent landmark of Kostanay, built in 1893, is known as the Ak Mosque.
Today, this sky-blue building with three minarets has been restored. The mosque is located in the central part of the city.
Kazakh-French Center
This center, reminiscent of a fabulous house, is located opposite Central Park. At the very entrance to it is a sculptureCharlie Chaplin. This is a gift from France, sent to celebrate the opening of the center.
The fourth floor is occupied by the only toy museum in the republic with a unique collection of exhibits.
Knight's Castle Restaurant
This place can also be called a landmark of Kostanay. It is worth coming to this restaurant even to see the interior, painstakingly and diligently designed in the style of a medieval castle.
Here there are a variety of decorative elements made of wood: soft and high sofas, massive tables. All this plunges into the atmosphere of the times of European monarchs.
In closing
The city of Kostanay is a typical Kazakh city that does not experience excessive tourist attention. It fits quite organically into the vast valleys of the region and is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the traditions and culture of the Kostanay region.
