Yining history

The city of Yining, also known by its historical name Kulja, boasts a rich and multifaceted history closely tied to its strategic position in the Ili River valley. Its development has been defined by trade routes, political shifts, and the cultural diversity of the region.

Foundation and Key Historical Stages

The first settlements on the territory of modern Yining have existed since ancient times; however, it began to take shape as a significant administrative and commercial centre during the Qing Dynasty era. In the 18th century, after establishing control over Dzungaria, the Qing government founded fortresses and cities here to consolidate power in the region. In 1762, the city of Huiyuan (often called "New Kulja") was founded, becoming a military-administrative centre, while the old "Taranchi Kulja" (modern Yining) developed as a hub for trade and crafts. In 1888, following the formation of Xinjiang Province, this territory was officially designated as a county.

Factors of Formation and Development

Several factors played a key role in the rise of Yining:

• Geographical Location: Its position in the fertile Ili River valley, one of the wettest areas in Xinjiang, fostered the development of agriculture and provided the city with resources.
• Trade: The city was located on a branch of the Great Silk Road, making it a vital trading hub connecting China with Central Asia. This contributed to economic prosperity and an influx of merchants.
• Political Significance: For centuries, Yining (Kulja) served as an important administrative and military outpost of the Chinese Empire on its western frontiers.

Cultural and Economic Features

Yining has historically been a meeting place for many peoples and cultures. Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Han Chinese, Hui, Mongols, and other ethnic groups have lived here side by side. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Old quarters, such as Kazanqi, still retain an authentic atmosphere with traditional houses, artisan workshops, and mosques. The city's economy has traditionally relied on trade, agriculture, and crafts, such as wool processing. Today, Yining continues to be a significant cultural and economic centre of the region, attracting tourists with its unique history and local colour.

Key Dates in the History of Yining (Kulja)

The history of Yining, also known as Kulja, is rich with events reflecting its strategic importance at the crossroads of cultures and trade routes. Below is a chronology of key moments that have shaped the appearance of the modern city.

• 1762 – The Qing Dynasty establishes the military-administrative centre of Huiyuan in the Ili River valley, which becomes the regional capital, laying the foundation for the future development of the neighbouring trading city of Kulja.
• 1764 – The trading city of Ningyuan (modern Yining) is founded, quickly turning into an important centre of commerce and crafts for merchants from various regions.
• 1851 – The Treaty of Kulja is signed between the Russian and Qing Empires, officially permitting Russian trade in the region and leading to the opening of a consulate.
• 1864–1871 – During the Dungan Revolt, Qing power in the region weakens, and the Ili Sultanate is formed within the territory of the Ili Valley.
• 1871 – Russian troops occupy the Ili region, including Kulja, to stabilize the situation on their borders and protect trade interests.
• 1881 – The Treaty of Saint Petersburg is concluded, under which the main part of the Ili region returns to Chinese administration.
• 1888 – The territory officially receives the status of Ningyuan County within the newly formed Xinjiang Province.
• 1914 – Ningyuan County is renamed Yining to avoid confusion with similarly named counties in other provinces of China.
• 1944 – Yining becomes the capital of the proclaimed Second East Turkestan Republic, which existed in the territory of the three northern districts of Xinjiang.
• 1949 – The region becomes part of the newly formed People's Republic of China.
• 1952 – The county-level city of Yining (Kulja City) is officially separated from Yining County.
• 1954 – The city becomes the administrative centre of the established Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture.

The history of the city of Yining, also known by its historical name Kulja, spans many centuries. Located in the fertile valley of the Ili River, it has always been a strategically important point at the intersection of civilizations and trade routes. The main stages of its development reflect the rich history of the entire region.

Key Milestones in Yining's History

• Hub of the Great Silk Road: Since ancient times, its location in a fertile valley made the settlement an important point on the northern branch of the Great Silk Road, contributing to its early development as a trade and cultural centre.
• Capital of the Dzungar Khanate: In the 17th-18th centuries, the city, then called Kulja, reached its peak, becoming the capital of the powerful Dzungar Khanate—the last major nomadic state in Central Asia.
• Centre of Qing Administration: In the mid-18th century, following the defeat of the Dzungar Khanate, the city was conquered by the Qing Empire. In 1762, the Huiyuan fortress (New Kulja) was founded nearby, becoming the military-administrative centre of all Xinjiang, while Yining itself (Old Kulja) remained a centre of crafts and trade.
• Opening to Foreign Trade: The signing of the Treaty of Kulja in 1851 between China and the Russian Empire opened the city to international trade. This event significantly strengthened its economic importance, turning it into a major trading hub on China's western borders.
• Administrative Centre in the 20th Century: After the formation of Xinjiang Province in 1888, Yining officially became a county seat. In 1954, it received the status of the capital of the newly formed Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, reinforcing its administrative functions.
• Modern Economic Growth: In recent decades, Yining has been actively developing as an agricultural centre, particularly famous for its lavender fields and fruit orchards. Thanks to its border location, the city is a vital node in trade with Kazakhstan.
• Tourism Development: Rich cultural heritage, a blend of many ethnicities, and picturesque natural landscapes have made Yining a popular tourist destination. The city attracts travellers with its authentic architecture, such as on Liuxing Street, and the opportunity to experience the unique traditions of the peoples of Central Asia.

The architectural appearance of Yining (Kulja) is a unique canvas upon which different eras and cultures have left their marks. Located at the crossroads of civilizations, the city has absorbed elements of Central Asian, Chinese, and Russian architecture, creating a unique and eclectic style. Urban development progressed from the chaotic construction of trading quarters to the more orderly structures of the imperial and modern periods.

Traditional Central Asian Architecture

The historical core of the city, particularly vividly represented in the tourist district of Kazanqi, demonstrates classic features of Central Asian urban architecture. It is characterized by:

• Courtyards (Hoyrah): Ancient estates with inner courtyards hidden from the bustle of the street.
• Materials: Adobe brick and wood were predominantly used, driven by local resources.
• Decor: Colourful facades, carved wooden elements (columns, doors, window frames), and vibrant painting give the buildings a special flair. This architecture reflects the traditions of Uyghur, Kazakh, and Uzbek cultures.

Chinese Urban Planning Influence

During the Qing Dynasty (18th-19th centuries), when Yining became a key administrative centre, elements of Chinese urban planning were introduced into its layout. This manifested in the creation of more regular blocks for administrative and military needs, in contrast to the organically grown trade and artisan districts. Although many structures from that time have not survived in their original form, the influence of Chinese architectural tradition is noticeable in the structure of some old streets and the layout of government buildings.

Russian Architectural Heritage

From the mid-19th century, following the signing of the Treaty of Kulja and the strengthening of trade ties with the Russian Empire, buildings in the Russian style began to appear in the city. These were mainly brick structures belonging to the consulate, trading firms, and wealthy merchants. Characteristic features of this period include stricter facades, elements of classicism, and masonry typical of Russian provincial architecture of that time. Several such historical buildings have survived to this day, some of which are integrated into modern hotel complexes. An Orthodox church was also built in the city, which, having gone through destruction and restoration, operates today as a testament to the Russian cultural presence.

Modern Development

From the mid-20th century to the present, Yining's architecture has been augmented by standard buildings of the socialist period and modern structures made of glass and concrete. As part of urban development, wide avenues have been laid out, and new residential micro-districts and industrial zones have been built. An important modern trend has been a careful attitude towards historical heritage. Revitalization projects, especially in the Kazanqi district, aim to preserve the unique atmosphere of the old city and adapt it for tourism needs, allowing for a harmonious blend of the past and present in Yining's urban landscape.

Notable Figures Associated with Yining

Throughout its rich history, the city of Yining (Kulja) has been the birthplace, place of activity, or an important waypoint for many distinguished individuals. Its strategic position at the crossroads of civilizations attracted politicians, explorers, military commanders, and cultural figures who left a significant mark on the history of the region.

• Qiu Chuji (1148–1227)

  Taoist sage and traveller. In the 13th century, he undertook a long journey from China to the camp of Genghis Khan in Central Asia. His path lay through the Ili River valley, and his travel notes "Journey to the West" contain some of the earliest and most valuable descriptions of the nature, daily life, and peoples of this region, including the territory of modern Kulja.

• Alakhan Sultan (Abil-oglu) (?-?)

  Ruler of the Ili Sultanate. One of the leaders of the Uyghur uprising of 1864, who subsequently became the last ruler of the Ili Sultanate with its capital in Kulja (1867–1871). His rule was a period of brief independence for the region before the territory was occupied by troops of the Russian Empire. After the signing of the Treaty of Saint Petersburg and the return of the main part of the region to China, Alakhan was exiled to Verny (Almaty).

• Shoqan Walikhanov (1835–1865)

  Kazakh scholar, historian, ethnographer, and traveller. In 1856, he undertook a scientific and diplomatic trip to Kulja. His diaries and reports contain invaluable information about the city, its trade, population, and the political situation of the mid-19th century. Walikhanov's works became an important source for studying the history and ethnography of the entire region.

• Ahmetjan Qasim (1914–1949)

  Political figure, President of the Second East Turkestan Republic (ETR). A native of Kulja, he became one of the most influential leaders of the national liberation movement. From 1946 to 1949, he headed the ETR government with its capital in Kulja. He died in a plane crash along with other government members on the way to negotiations in Beijing. He is buried in Kulja.

• Ishaq Beg Munonov (1902–1949)

  Military figure. Commander-in-Chief of the army of the Second East Turkestan Republic, known as the Ili National Army. He played a key role in the military successes of the republic. He died in the same plane crash as Ahmetjan Qasim.

• Zunun Taipov (1917–1984)

  Military figure, Major General. After his family moved to Kulja in 1931, he began his working and military career. He was one of the active participants in the events leading to the formation of the Second ETR, and later became one of the first Uyghur generals within the People's Liberation Army of China.