Seven Wonders of Kazakhstan

Everyone knows the seven wonders of the world, but each country has hundreds of amazing natural or man-made objects. They can reach our days from ancient times or be completely new. Kazakhstan, in particular, is home to a plethora of awe-inspiring sights that can be rightfully regarded as miracles. We have compiled a list of 7 amazing attractions and cultural treasures that, in our opinion, deserve to be called miracles. We will briefly tell you about them, and detailed information can be obtained by clicking on the link on the title.

1. The Golden Man – A renowned symbol of Kazakhstan, the perfectly preserved remains of a Scythian warrior in golden armor were unearthed during excavations of the Issyk mounds. This is a great rarity because many barrows were looted, and it was almost impossible to find an unlooted one. The discovery included exquisite jewelry and household items, offering a rare glimpse into the life of this young warrior who is believed to have been living in the 5th-6th centuries BC. The image of the Golden Man can be found throughout the country, including the crown of the Independence Monument in Almaty.
2. Lake Kaindy – Distinguishing itself from other lakes in Kazakhstan, Lake Kaindy's claim to fame lies in its incredibly preserved trees. The submerged trunks of Tien Shan firs create a mesmerizing spectacle, with the lower branches remaining virtually unchanged for nearly a century while the upper branches bear the marks of wind and sun. Formed in 1911 as a result of a powerful earthquake, Lake Kaindy exemplifies nature's ability to create miracles even amidst destruction.

3. Kobyz – The national instrument of the Kazakh people and many other Turkic cultures, the Kobyz stands out with its unique design and sound. This ancient musical instrument played a significant role in the rituals of steppe shaman healers. Legend has it that the renowned Turkic songwriter Korkut (9th century) invented the Kobyz and composed its first song, catapulting its popularity, especially among shamans. The Kobyz possessed such an aura that ordinary people were forbidden to touch it. Unfortunately, the instrument faced a period of decline and was even banned as a «shamanic» instrument for several years. As the 20th century progressed, new compositions ceased to emerge, pushing the Kobyz further toward obscurity. However, the Kobyz experienced a revival thanks to the efforts of Ykylas Dukenov. In honor of his contributions, the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments in Almaty bears his name and offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating kobyz.
4. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi – Located in Turkistan, the spiritual capital of the Turkic world, this 14th-century mausoleum was constructed by Emir Timur. It honors the renowned Central Asian poet, philosopher, and Islamic Sufi preacher. Today, the mausoleum serves as the centerpiece of the historical and cultural museum-reserve «Azret-Sultan» and features well-preserved interior and exterior elements, such as wall paintings and grand doors. Notably, it houses the masterpiece of iron casting, the taykazan, and has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

5. Yurt – As a portable dwelling integral to the lives of many nomadic peoples, the yurt holds historical and cultural significance. Kazakh yurts, adorned with felt curtains and entirely covered with felt for insulation, offer warmth and comfort. Consisting of a lattice folding frame (kerege), dome poles (uyk), a circle at the top (shanyrak) holding the poles together, and a felt door/mat, yurts can still be found in jailau (summer pastures), ethnic villages, and event squares. With origins dating back to the 5th-8th centuries BC, the yurt remains largely unchanged and serves as a symbol of traditional nomadic culture.
6. Underground mosques of Mangystau – The underground necropolises and mosques carved within the rocks have become iconic in the Mangystau region of Kazakhstan. These historical and cultural monuments showcase the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient stonemasons, adorned with Sufi inscriptions. Legend has it that over 300 Sufi remains rest in the lands of Mangystau. Among the most popular and striking underground mosques are Beket Ata, Shopan Ata, Sultan Epe, and Shakpak Ata. These underground structures are included in the list of «Sacred Places of Kazakhstan».

7. Nur Alem Museum of Future Energy – Among the remarkable new attractions in Kazakhstan, we have chosen the Nur Alem pavilion-sphere in Astana for its unique features. Constructed as the world's largest building in the shape of a sphere, it was originally designed for Expo 2017 under the theme «Energy of the Future». Symbolizing the final drop of oil before humanity's transition to green technologies, the pavilion garnered the most visitors during the exhibition. Today, it serves as Kazakhstan's first Technological Museum of the Energy of the Future, with each of its eight floors dedicated to a specific energy type. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, the Nur Alem Museum embodies Kazakhstan's commitment to a sustainable and technologically advanced future.