Semey

Semey's History

Semey, formerly known as Semipalatinsk, is situated in the newly established Abay region of Kazakhstan. As one of the oldest cities in the country, it traces its roots back to 1718 when it was founded as a fortress on the banks of the Irtysh River. Later, it evolved from a fortress into a trading hub connecting Russia, Central Asia, and Western China.

Semey was established on the ruins of seven Buddhist temples. This historical connection is evident in the city's name: in Russian "Semipalatinsk" means "Seven Chambers." Russian scholars documented the existence of the temples in the early 17th century, noting their recurrent destruction amid the frequent conflicts between the Kazakhs and Dzungars.

In the mid-19th century, Semipalatinsk gained notoriety as a political exile destination. Famed writer Fyodor Dostoevsky spent five years in exile here, and in his honor, a memorial museum now stands in Semey.

During the Soviet era in 1949, Semipalatinsk became the site of the USSR's first nuclear weapons test. This event had severe consequences, transforming the area into an environmentally hazardous and unsafe zone. Spanning four decades, this dark chapter claimed the lives of hundreds. In memory of the victims, the city erected the Stronger than Death Monument, symbolizing resilience. In 2007, distancing itself from the nuclear test site's association, the city was renamed Semey.

General Information

Semey, positioned in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, is considered the cultural capital due to the substantial contributions of its natives to the nation's history and culture. Renowned writers and musicians such as Abai Kunanbaev, Mukhtar Auezov, Shakarim Kudaiberdiev, and Roza Rymbaeva have called Semey home.

Today, Semey is celebrated for its historical museums, architectural landmarks, art galleries, theaters, and the picturesque Irtysh River. Often referred to as the "historical center of Kazakhstan," the city boasts well-preserved administrative buildings and merchant mansions, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Semey's architectural landscape harmoniously blends vintage houses with modern buildings.

By the way, Semey is situated nearly at the heart of Eurasia, being a mere 40 kilometers away from the geographical center. According to the Russian Geographical Society, this central point is found slightly southwest of the city.

The population of Semey is around 329,000 people as of 2013. Semey is a multicultural city where Islam and Orthodox Christianity coexist.

The climate is continental, characterized by extreme temperature variations between summer and winter, ranging from +45°C in summer to -45°C in winter.

The Irtysh River divides the city into two parts: the old right bank and the new left bank, connected by two road bridges and a railway bridge. Notably, the Suspension Bridge in Semey is the longest among post-Soviet countries.

Beyond its historical significance, Semey offers a vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, parks, and monuments. For a detailed guide to Semey's must-visit places, refer to this article.