Usharal history

The history of the city of Usharal dates back to the 19th century. The official biography of the settlement is considered to begin in 1871, when a fortified post was founded on the banks of the Tentek River, which eventually grew into a large settlement. The name of the city translates from the Kazakh language as "three islands," which is related to the hydrographic features of the local river: in this area, the Tentek channel divided, forming small islands. These lands were historically part of nomadic routes and played an important role in the life of the region, being an integral part of the territory where modern Kazakhstan is located today.

A key factor in the development of Usharal was its unique geographical position. The city is located in the immediate vicinity of Lake Alakol and the famous Dzungarian Gate — a mountain pass that has served as a corridor between Central Asia and China for centuries. Its location in a fertile river valley created favourable conditions for life, and the routes passing through here facilitated cultural and trade exchange.

Life in this region has always required resilience: local residents, engaged in cattle breeding and agriculture, had to adapt to a challenging climate. The hallmarks of the area became the legendary winds of the Dzungarian Gate — the warm "Evgey" and the cold, piercing "Saikan". Despite the harsh natural conditions, the settlement actively developed as an administrative and economic centre, and in 1984, Usharal officially received city status.

• 1871 — Foundation of a fortified settlement (Stefanovskaya stanitsa) on the Tentek River, marking the beginning of the city's history.
• 1928 — Usharal becomes the administrative centre of the Alakol District, strengthening its importance in the region.
• 1970 — Construction of an airfield in the Dzungarian Gate area, which became an important link in the transport network.
• 1971 — The start of large-scale road infrastructure development thanks to the work of specialised construction brigades.
• 1984 — The settlement receives official city status and the name Ucharal (later the transcription Usharal is established).
• 1990s — During the period of establishing the independence of Kazakhstan, the modern name of the city is confirmed.
• 2010 — Expansion of the city boundaries by including the nearby village of Talapker.
• 2015 — Start of the capital reconstruction of the runway at the local airport.
• 2017 — Grand opening of the renovated airport, which began accepting regular civil flights from major cities.
• 2018 — Launch of a subsidised air travel programme, significantly simplifying tourist access to Lake Alakol.
• 2022 — The city becomes part of the newly formed Zhetysu Region, retaining its status as a district centre.

The development of the city of Usharal represents a consistent transformation from a small border fortification to a significant regional hub. The establishment of the settlement in the Tentek River valley became the foundation for the formation of a settled population, replacing centuries-old nomadic routes with a lifestyle of agriculture and stationary trade. This historical stage created a reliable economic base, which over time allowed the settlement to grow into the administrative centre of the district, accumulating social and educational resources for the entire surrounding area.

Officially receiving city status and the subsequent years of independence, when Kazakhstan strengthened its statehood, were marked by important urban planning transformations and the return of the historical name. In recent history, a turning point was the modernisation of transport infrastructure: the large-scale reconstruction of the airport turned Usharal into a key air gateway to the popular resorts of Lake Alakol. Today, its strategic position near the Dzungarian Gate and its inclusion in the Zhetysu Region continue to stimulate the development of logistics, tourism, and small business, defining the modern dynamic appearance of the city.

The architectural appearance of the city of Usharal was formed under the influence of its strategic location and status as an administrative centre. It is difficult to find examples of Gothic or Baroque here; the urban fabric of the city represents a combination of utilitarian Soviet development, private residential sectors, and modern public buildings. The city is characterised by its compactness and predominantly low-rise buildings, which creates a cosy, almost intimate atmosphere typical of small settlements in the region.

Architectural Styles and Historical Eras

• Resettlement Period (late 19th — early 20th century). Initially, the settlement was built as an outpost, so the historical basis was the vernacular (folk) style. These were simple single-storey houses made of adobe and wood, adapted to the sharply continental climate. Although few authentic buildings of that period have survived, they set the rectangular grid of streets in the old part of the city.
• Soviet Period (1950–1980s). The era of active growth brought features of Soviet modernism and functionalism to the city's appearance. During this time, the main administrative buildings, schools, and cultural centres were built. The style is characterised by concise forms, the use of silicate brick and concrete, the absence of excessive decoration, and strict adherence to standard designs.
• Independence Period (since 1991). Modern Kazakhstan has brought elements of eclecticism and national flavour to the city's architecture. New buildings, such as shopping centres and service facilities, are built using modern materials (glass, metal cassettes). A special place is occupied by religious structures, built in the traditions of Islamic architecture.

Urban Landmarks and Significant Places

The centre of attraction and the architectural dominant of the city is the main square, where administrative institutions are concentrated. This is a classic example of district planning, where public space serves as a venue for holidays and gatherings. An important element shaping the visual appearance of Usharal are the monumental statues dedicated to historical figures, in particular, the majestic monument to Kabanbay Batyr, which emphasises the cultural identity of the region.

In recent years, the renovated airport has become a significant object of infrastructure architecture. Its terminal, designed in a modern style, has become the city's calling card for tourists arriving for holidays at the lakes. The residential quarters of the city represent quiet neighbourhoods immersed in the greenery of poplars and elms, which serve as natural protection from the steppe winds of the Dzungarian Gate.

Pride of the Region: Outstanding Personalities

The history of the city of Usharal and the Alakol District is inextricably linked with the names of people whose achievements have left a noticeable mark on culture, history, and public life. This land, located at the junction of important routes, became the birthplace and place of activity for many talented individuals — from legendary batyrs (warriors) of the past to modern artists.

Below are famous persons whose biographies are intertwined with this region:

• Kabanbay Batyr (Karakerey Kabanbay) (1692–1770)
  Military commander, national hero.
  One of the most famous commanders in the history of the Kazakh people's struggle against the Dzungar invasion. Although the batyr was not born in the city itself, the region of the Dzungarian Gate and the Alakol coast was the arena of his decisive battles. His name holds immense historical significance for local residents, symbolising courage and the protection of the homeland.
• Beken Zhylysbayev (1923–2015)
  Opera singer, teacher, People's Artist of Kazakhstan.
  A native of the Alakol District. Possessing a unique tenor, he made an invaluable contribution to the development of opera art in the country, performing on the best stages and raising a galaxy of talented students. His creative path glorified the cultural potential of the region where Kazakhstan is located, on an international level.
• Zeytin Akishev (1911–1991)
  Writer, playwright, translator.
  A famous literary figure born in this region. In his works, he often addressed themes of his native land, describing the life and traditions of local residents. His novels and plays became an important part of the national literary heritage of the 20th century.
• Zhumatay Zhakypbayev (1945–1990)
  Poet, member of the Writers' Union.
  A talented poet whose work is permeated with love for the nature of Zhetysu. He is called the "Khan of Poetry" of his generation in the region. Zhakypbayev's poems are distinguished by special lyricism and imagery, capturing the beauty of the foothills and steppes around Usharal.
• Grigory Bezrodnykh (20th century)
  Journalist, local historian, writer.
  A man who dedicated his life to preserving the history of the city. The author of books and essays about Usharal, he collected facts bit by bit about the formation of the city, its veterans, and workers. Thanks to his works, many pages of the past were not forgotten.