Almaty history

The history of Almaty is rooted in deep antiquity, long before the official founding of the modern city. Archaeological findings indicate that the favorable climatic conditions and the location at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains made this land attractive to settlers for millennia.

Foundation and First Mentions

The first settled communities of farmers and herders appeared on the territory of modern Almaty as early as the Bronze Age (10th–9th centuries BC). Later, these lands were inhabited by Saka and Wusun tribes, who left behind numerous burial mounds. In the Middle Ages, roughly from the 8th to the 10th centuries, there was an urban settlement here, presumably named Almatu. It was one of the centers on the Great Silk Road, where crafts and trade flourished, and it even had its own mint in the 13th century. The modern history of the city begins in 1854 with the founding of the Russian military fortification Verny on the left bank of the Malaya Almatinka River. In 1921, the city was renamed Alma-Ata, and since 1993, the official name has been Almaty.

Key Factors of Establishment

• Geographical Location: Its location in the foothills of the Tien Shan provided the city with water, protection from winds, and created a unique microclimate favorable for life and agriculture.
• Trade: In the Middle Ages, the city was a vital link on the Great Silk Road, which contributed to its economic development. Later, the Verny fortification was established partly to ensure the security of trade routes in the region.
• Political Role: As early as 1867, Verny became the administrative center of the Semirechye Region. In 1927, the city received the status of the capital of the Kazakh ASSR, which gave a powerful impulse to its growth and transformation into the main scientific, cultural, and economic center of the republic for many years.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The region's economy was historically linked to agriculture, as evidenced by the name "Almaty" itself (translated from Kazakh as "Apple" or "Place of Apples"). Pottery and blacksmithing were developed in the medieval city. With the founding of Verny and the arrival of settlers, active land development, agriculture, and industry began. The cultural appearance of the city was formed at the intersection of the nomadic traditions of the Kazakh people and the settled culture brought by settlers, creating the unique and multifaceted character of the southern capital of Kazakhstan.

Key Milestones in the History of Almaty

The history of Almaty is a journey from a military fortification to the cultural and financial hub of Kazakhstan. The city has changed its status and name multiple times, reflecting the turbulent events in the region's life.

• 1854 — Foundation of the Zailiyskoye military fortification, which was soon renamed Vernoye. This event marked the beginning of the modern city.
• 1867 — Verny receives city status and becomes the administrative center of the Semirechye Region.
• 1887 — A devastating earthquake claims the lives of over 300 people and destroys almost all brick buildings in the city. This event influenced the city's architectural appearance, as new buildings began to be constructed primarily from wood.
• 1921 — The city of Verny is renamed Alma-Ata. The decision was made on February 5 at a meeting of the Presidium of the Central Executive Committee of the Turkestan ASSR.
• 1929 — The capital of the Kazakh ASSR is moved from Kyzyl-Orda to Alma-Ata, giving a powerful boost to the city's development.
• 1930 — Opening of the Turkestan-Siberia Railway (Turksib) and the launch of the airport, which connected the city by air with major hubs.
• 1936 — Alma-Ata becomes the capital of the newly formed Kazakh SSR within the Soviet Union.
• 1991 — Following the dissolution of the USSR, Alma-Ata becomes the first capital of the independent Republic of Kazakhstan.
• 1993 — The city returns to its historical name in the Kazakh language — Almaty.
• 1997 — The capital of Kazakhstan is moved from Almaty to Akmola (now Astana), after which the unofficial status of "Southern Capital" became firmly attached to the city.

Key Stages of City Development

Throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, Almaty went through several key stages of transformation that defined its modern appearance as a cultural, economic, and scientific center. These milestones reflect not only the changing eras but also the city's unique ability to adapt and develop.

• The Capital Period (1927–1997). Receiving the status of the capital of the Kazakh ASSR, and later the Kazakh SSR, became a powerful impulse for development. During this period, a general development plan was created, and key administrative buildings, theaters, universities, and residential areas appeared, forming the architectural look of the city center. The population grew sharply, requiring intensive construction.
• Formation of a Center for Seismic Construction. After the destructive earthquakes of 1887 and 1911, the city became a testing ground for the development and implementation of new construction technologies. Engineers and architects, such as Andrei Zenkov, created unique construction methods that allowed buildings to withstand seismic activity. This experience formed the basis of building codes and regulations applied throughout the 20th century, defining a special, more robust type of urban development.
• Industrial Surge in the Mid-20th Century. During World War II, dozens of industrial enterprises were evacuated to Almaty from across the USSR. This event radically changed the city's economic structure, turning it from a predominantly administrative and agrarian center into a major industrial hub. The foundations of mechanical engineering, light industry, and food production were laid.
• Establishment as a Scientific and Educational Hub. Along with its capital status, the intellectual elite concentrated in the city. The Academy of Sciences was founded (1946), and leading universities and research institutes were opened. This cemented Almaty's role as the republic's main scientific, educational, and cultural center for many decades.
• Development of Tourism and Sports. The construction of iconic facilities such as the high-altitude skating rink "Medeu" (1972) and the ski resort "Shymbulak" made Almaty a point of attraction for tourists and athletes from all over the world. Unique natural conditions combined with modern infrastructure allowed the city to host international competitions and strengthened its image as the sports capital of Central Asia.
• New Status: "Southern Capital" and Financial Center. After the transfer of the capital to Astana in 1997, Almaty did not lose its significance. The city successfully transformed into the country's main financial, business, and cultural center. This period is characterized by the rapid growth of private business, the construction of modern business centers, residential complexes, and the development of the service sector.

The architectural appearance of Almaty is a fascinating journey through eras, where each period has left its unique mark. The city, having survived several stages of rapid growth, has become a true open-air museum, harmoniously combining wooden architecture, monumental Soviet modernism, and the gleaming skyscrapers of modernity.

Pre-Revolutionary Period (City of Verny)

After the devastating earthquake of 1887, which destroyed almost all stone structures, Verny's architecture took a special path. Wood became the main material, and the engineer and architect Andrei Zenkov became a key figure. He developed methods of earthquake-resistant construction that were unique for his time. During this period, a recognizable style was formed, combining elements of Russian architecture and classicism. The brightest example of this era is the Ascension Cathedral in the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen — a unique wooden building constructed almost without nails, which withstood the severe earthquake of 1911. The House of Army Officers, which today houses the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments named after Ykhlas, also belongs to this period.

Soviet Era: From Constructivism to Modernism

Becoming the capital of the Kazakh SSR in 1927, Alma-Ata turned into a massive construction site. This period can be divided into several stages:

• Constructivism (1920s – early 1930s): The early Soviet period brought avant-garde architecture to the city. Buildings of this style are characterized by strict geometric shapes and functionality. The first major administrative buildings were designed in this style.
• Stalinist Neoclassicism (mid-1930s – mid-1950s): Ascetic constructivism was replaced by the monumental "Stalinist Empire" style. This style strove for grandeur and luxury, often including national ornaments in the decor. The main symbols of the era are the Abay Opera House and the former Government building (now the Kazakh-British Technical University).
• Soviet Modernism (1960s – 1980s): This period was defining for the appearance of modern Almaty. Architects received more creative freedom, allowing for bold and futuristic projects. The buildings feature massive forms, the use of concrete, glass, and aluminum, as well as the integration of mosaics and panels with national motifs. Almaty is rightfully considered a reserve of Soviet modernism, and its iconic objects include the Hotel "Kazakhstan", the Republic Palace, the Palace of Schoolchildren, and the "Medeu" high-altitude sports complex.

Modern Kazakhstan (Since 1991)

After gaining independence and the transfer of the capital, Almaty established itself as the financial and cultural center of the country. This triggered a new construction boom. The architecture of this period is diverse: from postmodernism to high-tech. The cityscape was supplemented by modern business centers, residential complexes, and skyscrapers made of glass and metal, such as the Esentai Tower. At the same time, the city maintains a balance between historical heritage and bold new projects, making its architectural landscape truly multi-layered and interesting.

Outstanding Personalities in the History of Almaty

The history of Almaty is closely intertwined with the destinies of many prominent figures whose talents and work left an indelible mark on the architecture, science, culture, and political life of the city and the entire country. These people, living in different eras, shaped the unique appearance and character of Kazakhstan's southern capital.

• Andrei Zenkov (1863–1936) — military engineer, architect. His name is inextricably linked with the architecture of the pre-revolutionary city of Verny. Zenkov became one of the founders of seismic construction in the region. Many iconic buildings were erected according to his designs, including the world-famous Ascension Cathedral, which withstood the powerful earthquake of 1911.
• Abilkhan Kasteev (1904–1973) — painter, founder of Kazakh fine arts. Born in the Almaty region, he lived and worked in Almaty for most of his life. His canvases, numbering more than two thousand works, became an artistic chronicle of the life of the Kazakh people. Today, the State Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan bears his name.
• Kanysh Satpayev (1899–1964) — outstanding scientist-geologist, organizer of science. In 1941, he moved to Alma-Ata, where he headed the Kazakh branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences. Satpayev became the founder and first president of the Academy of Sciences of the Kazakh SSR (1946), turning Alma-Ata into the republic's main scientific center.
• Mukhtar Auezov (1897–1961) — writer, playwright, and scholar of global renown. Although he was not born in Almaty, his life and work are closely connected with the city, where he taught, worked, and created his main masterpieces. His epic novel "The Path of Abai" is recognized as a masterpiece of world literature. His house-museum is located in Almaty, and a drama theater and one of the city's districts bear his name.
• Shaken Aimanov (1914–1970) — actor, theater and film director, the "father" of Kazakh cinema. His creative activity in Alma-Ata began at the Kazakh Drama Theater. Later, he became a leading film director, shooting cult films such as "Our Dear Doctor" and "Angel in a Skullcap," which captured the spirit and atmosphere of the city. The "Kazakhfilm" film studio in Almaty is named after him.
• Dinmukhamed Kunayev (1912–1993) — state and political figure. Born in Verny, he was the primary leader of the Kazakh SSR for nearly a quarter of a century. During his leadership, Alma-Ata experienced rapid growth: iconic objects such as the Republic Palace, the "Medeu" high-altitude skating rink, and new residential micro-districts were built, largely shaping the modern look of the city.
• Roza Rymbayeva (born 1957) — Soviet and Kazakh pop singer, actress. Her career began in Almaty in the "Gulder" ensemble. Possessing a unique voice, she became one of the main musical symbols of the country, receiving the unofficial titles "Golden Voice of Kazakhstan" and "Singing Nightingale of Central Asia." Residing in Almaty, she continues her active creative career.