Palace of Independence
The deep-blue color of the Palace of Independence symbolizes eternity in Turkish culture. Adding to its national charm, the building's facade is adorned with kerege, lattices reminiscent of the walls of a traditional yurt. This versatile structure was completed in an impressive time frame of less than a year. It was inaugurated on December 15, 2008, on the eve of the Independence Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Comprising three floors, the Palace offers distinct areas and functions. The first floor is the most formal, housing the Ceremonial Hall, Congress Hall, a press center, and a restaurant, providing spaces for official events and gatherings.
Museums and galleries
On the second floor, visitors are greeted by galleries, among which the Hall of Archeology stands out. This space showcases a collection of ancient artifacts, including replicas of the Golden Man, the Sarmatian warrior, and the Berel horses. The clothing and jewelry from the Scythian era are particularly captivating, displaying a unique animal style.
Every year, the gallery hosts a variety of cultural events, such as the exhibition «The World Through the Eyes of the Kimono Master Itchiku Kubota», which introduced the residents and guests of the capital to a remarkable collection of kimonos. Another notable exhibition, «Napoleon: Life and Legend», delved into the life and legacy of the renowned French emperor.
The third floor of the palace is home to the Museum of the History of Astana, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past, present, and future. Here, one can also explore the General Plan for the Development of Astana until 2030.
Beyond its cultural and historical significance, the Palace of Independence accommodates various educational institutions and facilities. These include a film academy, an international school of mathematics and programming, a chess club, a music studio, a gymnastics academy, and a school for children focusing on financial literacy.
Ceremonies and events
Furthermore, the Palace of Independence serves as a venue for significant national events. Notable examples include the inauguration ceremonies of the First President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev in 2011 and 2015, as well as the current President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in 2019.
In addition to its national importance, the palace frequently hosts a wide array of cultural and entertainment events. It becomes a vibrant hub for concerts, exhibitions, competitions, and festivals, enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
Moreover, the Palace of Independence has gained recognition on the global stage by hosting world-class events. In 2010, it accommodated the OSCE Summit, with the participation of the heads of 38 states. The palace has also welcomed the anniversary summits of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Notably, it has served as the venue for the meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, where esteemed speakers and experts gather.
One landmark event held at the Palace of Independence was the IV Meeting of Speakers of the Parliaments of the Eurasian Countries in 2019, attracting parliamentarians from 65 nations. In 2022, the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, an unparalleled event of its kind, was hosted at the palace, further solidifying its global reputation.
How to get there?
Address: Astana, 52 Tauelsyzdyk Ave.
The Palace of Independence can be reached by buses #3, 4, 4A, 19, 14, 21, 29, 29A, 32, 40, 43, 50, 802, and 806. The nearest bus stops: «National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan», «Palace of Independence» and «Shabyt University of the Arts».
Other tourist attractions near the Palace of Independence:
- Khazret Sultan Mosque
- National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Kazakh Music and Drama Theater named after K. Kuanyshbayev
- Shabyt University of the Arts
- Peace Wall Monument
- Independence Square and the Kazakh Eli Monument
- Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
- Presidential Park
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