Kazakhstan – Kazakhstan's capital is Astana

(Pronounced kah-zahk-stahn and ahs-tah-nah)

To remember the capital of Kazakhstan, use the following mnemonic:

The cars on the ark stand (Kazakhstan) and gaze at the stars that form a banana (Astana).

Interesting facts about Astana:

- Futuristic Architecture: Astana is famous for its ultra-modern and avant-garde skyline, featuring striking futuristic buildings designed by world-renowned architects, such as the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.

- Tower Landmark: The city’s skyline is anchored by the Bayterek Tower, a monumental observation structure topped by a golden glass sphere that represents a mythical tree of life and a sacred bird’s egg.

- Steppe Capital: Located on the vast, flat plains of the Kazakh Steppe, Astana is recognised as one of the coldest capital cities in the world, experiencing extreme winters with sub-zero temperatures.