Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan is the second largest city in the country. This is a fast developing city with a shiny façade of Government buildings and new architecture. Rapid construction work is being undertaken by the Government to make this city one of the most prominent locations of Central Asia. The foundations for the city of Astana were laid when a fortress was built by Siberian soldiers in 1824 on the upper Ishim. When Kazakhstan became an independent country in 1991, this region was named Aqmola. It was the designated as the capital of Kazakhstan in 1994 in place of the original capital Almaty. The busiest place is the Central Avenue with its shops and entertainment centers. Important places to visit include Duman Entertainment Center, Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex, The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, The President’s Museum of Kazakhstan, Baiterek Tower and Khan Shatyry. The best time to visit Astana would be the months of April, September and October. Astana’s famous for its horsemeat dish, Beshbarmak and its hot bread Boursaky.