Akimat of Almaty
In Kazakhstan, the akimat serves as the primary executive body in each region, with the akim functioning as the equivalent of a mayor. The akimat building in Almaty, constructed in 1979, held great significance as the largest building in the Kazakh SSR at that time. Positioned atop a small hill, the building's elevated location was a deliberate design choice, emphasizing its administrative importance. The architectural design features a multi-story Ш-shape, while the interior showcased elements such as marble, pine doors, and parquet flooring.
Initially, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Kazakh SSR utilized the building. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the country's acquisition of independence, it became the residence of the First President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, during Almaty's tenure as the capital. The building was eventually transferred to the akimat in 1994. Since 1984, it has held the classification of an architectural monument, a protected entity, and a vital component of Republic Square's architectural complex.
January events
On January 2, 2022, Kazakhstan experienced a series of mass protests triggered by a sudden and significant rise in liquefied gas prices. These protests initially began peacefully in Zhanaozen but soon turned violent and spread to other cities, including Almaty. Unfortunately, during this period, the akimat was stormed and set ablaze, resulting in approximately 80% of the building being destroyed, leaving behind a skeletal structure.
Plans have been made to restore the akimat, with builders and architects estimating that the reconstruction would be completed by March 2023. However, the reconstruction efforts are still underway, and the building remains enclosed within fencing. The restoration plans aim to revive the akimat's original appearance and architectural style.
In December 2022, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev inaugurated the Tagzym memorial, situated in front of the akimat, dedicated to the victims of the January events.
How to get there?
You can get to the akimat by buses #32, 45, 70, 95, 121, 124, and 205. The nearest bus stop is «Republic Square».
Other tourist attractions near the Akimat of Almaty:
- Independence Monument and Republic Square
- Dawn of Freedom Monument
- Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Hotel InterContinental Almaty
- Kazakh National Agrarian University
- National Library of Kazakhstan
Recommended tours:
View all offers-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: City Tour")
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour where you'll explore Almaty's prominent attractions. Visit the Museum of Almaty, marvel at the exquisite Ascension Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of trade at the Green Bazaar.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour")
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Ultimate Almaty Day Tour")
A fantastic option for a day-long adventure that involves discovering Almaty's most fascinating landmarks. This excursion allows you to explore the best attractions of Almaty and also takes you to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, providing a delightful experience amidst the breathtaking mountain landscapes.