Shymkent history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Shymkent, one of the oldest cities in Kazakhstan, is rooted in deep antiquity. Archaeological research within the modern city limits, particularly at the Shymkent settlement, proves that settlements existed here more than 2,200 years ago, approximately in the 3rd–2nd centuries BC. The first written mentions of the city date back to 1425 and are found in the Persian work "Zafar Name" ("The Book of Victory") by historian Sharaf ad-Din Ali Yazdi, where the city is described in the context of Tamerlane's military campaigns. The city's name likely comes from the fusion of the Turkic word "shym" (turf/sod) and the Iranian "kent" (city), which can be translated as "Green City" or "City in the Grass".

Key Development Factors

Shymkent owes much of its growth and development to its strategic location. The city emerged at the crossroads of the caravan routes of the Great Silk Road, making it an important centre for trade and craftsmanship. The key factors in its formation were:

• Geographical Location: Situated in a fertile oasis at the foot of the mountains, the area provided favourable conditions for agriculture and cattle breeding, which encouraged a settled lifestyle.
• Trade: As a vital point on the Great Silk Road, the city connected the nomadic steppes with the settled civilisations of Central Asia, contributing to economic prosperity.
• Political and Military Role: For centuries, Shymkent was a significant fortress and an arena of struggle between various states, including the Kazakh, Kokand, and Bukhara Khanates. At different times, it was part of the empires of Genghis Khan and Tamerlane, highlighting its strategic importance.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Ancient Shymkent was a typical Central Asian city with a citadel, a shahristan (the main urban area), and a rabad (a trade and craft suburb). Archaeological finds, such as ceramics, coins from the Karakhanid era, iron arrowheads, and jewellery, testify to a developed material culture. The economy was based on crafts, including pottery and metalworking, as well as trade and agriculture, including gardening. The city was not just a trading crossroads but also a centre of cultural exchange between different peoples, which is reflected in its multifaceted history and heritage.

Key Milestones in Shymkent's History

The history of Shymkent is a kaleidoscope of eras, reflecting its strategic importance at the crossroads of trade routes and cultures. From a small settlement to a modern metropolis, the city has travelled a long and eventful path.

• XI–XII centuries — Emergence of a permanent settlement on the site of modern Shymkent, confirmed by archaeological findings.
• 1365–1366 — The first written mention of the city under the name "Chimkent" in the "Zafar Name" chronicle in connection with Tamerlane's military campaigns.
• Early XVI century — The city becomes part of the Kazakh Khanate, becoming an important centre on the southern borders.
• 1810–1864 — Shymkent is under the rule of the Kokand Khanate and turns into a powerful military fortress.
• 1821 — A major uprising takes place led by the Kazakh Sultan Tentek-tore against the power of Kokand, during which the city was temporarily captured by the rebels.
• July 1864 — Troops of the Russian Empire under the command of Colonel Mikhail Chernyaev take the Chimkent fortress by storm.
• 1914 — The city is temporarily renamed Chernyaev in honour of the 50th anniversary of its accession to the Russian Empire.
• 1922 — The city is returned to its historical name, Chimkent.
• 1930s — Industrialisation begins: a lead plant is built, which accounted for up to 70% of all lead produced in the USSR.
• 1941–1945 — During the Great Patriotic War (WWII), the city becomes an important rear centre, accepting 17 evacuated industrial enterprises.
• 8 September 1992 — The name of the city is officially changed from "Chimkent" to the modern "Shymkent" in accordance with Kazakh transcription.
• 19 June 2018 — Shymkent receives the status of a city of republican significance, becoming the third metropolis of Kazakhstan with a special status.

Key Stages of Shymkent's Development

The history of Shymkent is full of events that transformed it from an ancient fortress into the third metropolis of Kazakhstan. Below are the main milestones of its urban, economic, and cultural growth.

• Accession to the Russian Empire (1864). After the city was taken by Russian troops, Shymkent became an important district centre and transit point. This period marked the beginning of industrial development: a santonin plant was built, becoming one of the first major enterprises in the region.
• Soviet Industrialisation (1930s). The city turned into a powerful industrial hub. A key event was the construction of the lead plant, which produced up to 70% of all lead in the USSR. Other enterprises were actively built, leading to rapid population growth and the emergence of new residential areas.
• Post-War Growth (1950–1980s). The city's economy continued to diversify: a cotton combine, a cement plant, the "Voskhod" garment factory, and other enterprises appeared. This period was marked by large-scale housing construction, the appearance of new micro-districts, avenues, and cultural institutions.
• Independence Period (from 1991). After the collapse of the USSR, the city, like the whole country, faced economic difficulties but managed to adapt over time. A new stage began, characterised by rapid population growth and the active development of private entrepreneurship.
• Status of a City of Republican Significance (2018). On 19 June 2018, Shymkent was designated as a separate administrative-territorial unit, which gave a powerful impetus to its development. This decision significantly increased the city's budget, attracted major investments, and accelerated the pace of construction.
• Cultural Capital of the CIS (2020). The awarding of this status highlighted the growing role of the city as an important cultural centre not only for Kazakhstan but for the entire Commonwealth. Despite the pandemic, a number of events were held that strengthened the image of Shymkent on the international stage.
• Modern Urban Development. Today, Shymkent is experiencing a construction boom. A general development plan until 2035 has been approved, which provides for the construction of new residential areas, the creation of industrial zones, and the modernisation of infrastructure, including the construction of a railway bypass.

The architectural appearance of Shymkent is a multi-layered canvas upon which different eras have left their mark. From the ancient citadel to futuristic skyscrapers, the city demonstrates a unique blend of Asian and European urban planning traditions, reflecting its rich history.

The Middle Ages and the Kokand Period

The historical core of the city is the ancient settlement — The Citadel (Shymkala), typical of Central Asian cities. The buildings consisted of adobe houses, which, due to the fragility of the material, have not been preserved in their original form. However, a unique feature of Shymkent is that the historical network of narrow streets in the Old City has survived to this day. The Koshar-Ata Mosque (XIX century), which is an example of the religious architecture of that time, belongs to a later period.

The Russian Empire Era (Late XIX – Early XX Century)

After 1864, a new administrative centre began to form next to the traditional buildings. This period is characterised by the so-called "Red Brick Style" — a variety of eclecticism common in the cities of the empire. Buildings were constructed from fired brick and combined elements of Russian and Oriental architecture.

• St. Nicholas Cathedral (1914) — a vivid example of this style. Today, this majestic red brick building houses the Regional Puppet Theatre.
• Merchant Houses, such as the Zholdasov house, demonstrated a mixture of European layout with Oriental decor, reflecting the multicultural character of the city.

The Soviet Period (1920s – 1980s)

This stage radically changed the appearance of Shymkent, turning it into a major industrial centre. The architecture of this time is divided into several stages:

• Stalinist Neoclassicism (1930s – early 1950s): Workers' settlements were built around industrial giants such as the lead plant. Residential houses and public buildings were erected in a monumental classical style, with stucco decoration and strict forms. A landmark object of the era is the Palace of Culture of Metallurgists.
• Soviet Modernism (mid-1950s – 1980s): After the rejection of "architectural excesses," the era of mass standard construction began. The city was actively built up with panel and brick micro-districts, and public buildings (theatres, cinemas) acquired concise functional forms using concrete and glass. This period largely shaped the modern residential appearance of the city.

Modern Kazakhstan (Since 1991)

In the newest period, the architecture of Shymkent has become more eclectic and dynamic. New administrative and business centres have appeared, such as "Nursat" and the actively developing Shymkent City district.

Modern architecture is characterised by a combination of the latest materials (glass, metal, composite panels) with traditional Oriental and national motifs — arches, domes, and ornaments. Vivid examples are the Central Mosque (2013), the Rixos Khadisha Shymkent hotel, and numerous residential complexes that form the new, high-rise silhouette of the country's third metropolis.

Prominent Personalities of Shymkent

The city of Shymkent, one of the oldest in Kazakhstan, is the birthplace of many talented people who have made a significant contribution to the culture, science, sports, and public life of the country.

Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (approx. 1103–1166)

An outstanding thinker, poet, and head of the Turkic branch of Sufism. Although he was born in the city of Sayram, which is today part of Shymkent, his legacy is of global significance. His main work, "Diwan-i Hikmet" ("Book of Wisdom"), had a tremendous influence on the development of literature and spiritual thought among Turkic peoples. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in the city of Turkistan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of pilgrimage.

Shamshi Kaldayakov (1930–1992)

A famous composer, the "King of the Kazakh Waltz," and one of the founders of modern Kazakh pop music. He is the author of the music for the national anthem of the Republic of Kazakhstan. His melodic and soulful songs, such as "Ana turaly zhyr" ("Song about Mother"), have become truly distinct to the people. In Shymkent, an avenue is named in his honour, and a monument has been erected.

Mukhtar Shakhanov (born 1942)

A renowned poet, writer, playwright, and public figure. A People's Writer of Kazakhstan, whose works have been translated into many languages of the world. His creativity is imbued with ideas of humanism and justice. Shakhanov is also known for his active civic position and contribution to the anti-nuclear movement.

Timur Bekmambetov (born 1961)

A world-famous film director, screenwriter, and producer. Born in Guryev (now Atyrau), his family soon moved to Shymkent, where he grew up. He became famous thanks to films such as "Night Watch", "Day Watch", and the Hollywood blockbuster "Wanted". His works are distinguished by an innovative visual style and have made a significant contribution to the development of modern cinema.

Aliya Yussupova (born 1984)

A celebrated Kazakhstani gymnast, multiple Asian champion, and participant in two Olympic Games. She is one of the most successful representatives of rhythmic gymnastics in the history of Kazakhstan. After completing her sports career, Aliya Yussupova opened her own school of rhythmic gymnastics in Shymkent, where she trains a new generation of athletes.

Beibut Shumenov (born 1983)

A Kazakhstani professional boxer who competed in the light heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions. He is a world champion under the WBA and IBA versions. With his impressive victories in the professional ring, he has brought glory to Kazakhstan in the international sports arena.