ASTANA — Located in the eastern expanse of Kazakhstan, Semei, also known as Semipalatinsk, was founded more than three centuries ago and best represents Kazakhstan’s historical, cultural and natural richness. Let’s get to know the charming Semei, the heart of the Abai Region. Semei.
Photo credit: Turar Kazangapov. Click to see the map in full size. The map is designed by The Astana Times.
The origins and history of Semei In 1718, Semei was established on the orders of Peter the Great to secure the eastern borders of the Russian Empire. Initially named as Semipalatinsk, the fortress was a key element of the Irtysh defensive line, designed to defend against nomadic incursions and to develop trade. Photo credit: Archival photo.
The name ‘Semipalatinsk’ originated from the seven semi-ruined Buddhist Kalmyk temples situated 18 kilometers away from the city. In 2007, it was officially changed to Semei. On June 8, 2022, Semei became the center of the newly formed Abai Region.
From 1917 to 1920, Zarechnaya Slobodka, the suburbs of Semipalatinsk, briefly bore the name ‘Alash Qala’ (Alash City) during the proclamation of Alash autonomy. It was a temporary capital of the Alash Orda, a significant political movement of the time. A sobering legacy: The Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site In 1949, the Soviet Union established the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site for atomic bomb testing.
Spanning 18,500 square kilometers, the site was utilized for 468 nuclear tests over four decade.