E. Rakhmadiyev Philharmonic Hall
The building which now houses the Philharmonic Hall, was built in 1963. Initially known as Tselinnik Palace, it derived its name from the "Tselina" or virgin lands, which gained prominence during the late 1950s and early 1960s as part of the Soviet Union's Virgin Lands campaign. This campaign aimed to transform Central Kazakhstan into a thriving agricultural region through development and resettlement efforts. Tselinnik Palace swiftly became an iconic symbol not only for the city but also for the entire region. The palace hosted a multitude of events, including party meetings, concerts, film screenings, dance evenings, and New Year celebrations. One of the building’s notable features was the inclusion of a small botanical garden within the palace, showcasing plants from various regions across the USSR.
In 1998, a comprehensive reconstruction project was undertaken, resulting in the hall's capacity being reduced by nearly a thousand seats. However, the renovation rendered the building more comfortable and contemporary. Consequently, it was renamed the "Congress Hall."
The Congress Hall enjoyed immense popularity for many years, with events scheduled months in advance. Its versatile spaces hosted a wide array of gatherings such as concerts, performances, exhibitions, and fairs.
In 2016, the building underwent another name change, becoming the Astana Concert Hall. Presently, it serves as the home of the Philharmonic Hall, dedicated to the memory of Erkegali Rakhmadiyev – a prominent Soviet and Kazakh composer and statesman. At the philharmonic, visitors have the opportunity to listen to Kazakh national music as well as immerse themselves in the masterpieces crafted by renowned composers from around the world.
How to get there?
Address: Astana, 32 Kenesary St.
The E. Rakhmadiyev Philharmonic Hall can be reached by buses #1, 9, 17, 23, 25, 31, and 32.
Other tourist attractions near the Philharmonic:
- Town Square
- Russian Drama Theatre named after M. Gorky
- Tree of Life Fountain
- Trading House of Merchant Matvey Kubrin
- Manor of Vasily Kubrin
- Manor of Merchant P. Moiseyev
- Central Park
- Monument to Khan Kenesary
- Arbat Street
- Esil River Embankment
- Atyrau Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge
- Respublika Avenue
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Astana Private City Tour: Present")
Join us on a tour of Astana, the youngest capital in the world and the pride of Kazakhstan. The city represents a unique blend of the finest traditions from both the West and the East.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Astana Sightseeing Tour with Boat Excursion")
Add a touch of romance to your visit to the capital of Kazakhstan! Enjoy a sightseeing tour around the right bank of the Ishym River, coupled with a 40-minute boat trip.
 (1)_420x650_4ab.jpg "Astana Private Grand Tour: Past into Present")
Explore the capital of Kazakhstan with this tour, starting from the Old Town and gradually moving to newer additions to the city's skyline. See how Astana has grown and evolved over time.
Astana's allure extends beyond its futuristic architecture. Take a journey into its past to explore some of the city's oldest buildings.