Astana, officially known as Nur-Sultan since March 2019, is the capital city of Kazakhstan and is known for its futuristic skyline marked by modern architecture. It is located in the north-central part of the country, within the Akmola Region, though it is administratively separate from the rest of the region. The city was renamed after the former president of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev. Astana is a planned city, with the government of Kazakhstan deciding to move the capital from Almaty in 1997 for strategic, economic, and geographical reasons. Since then, Astana has undergone rapid development and transformation, with numerous government buildings, cultural institutions, and corporate headquarters being constructed. The city is divided by the Ishim River, creating a natural division between the older and newer parts of the city. The newer part of Astana is characterized by bold architectural projects such as the Bayterek Tower, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center. Astana hosts several international events, conferences, and fairs, which has contributed to its growing reputation as a central hub in Central Asia. Despite its modern appearance, the city also preserves its Kazakh heritage, with traditional music, food, and festivals playing a significant role in its cultural life.