The main architectural symbol of sovereignty and the administrative heart of Kazakhstan -
A palace combining the traditions of the Great Steppe and modern world standards -
The Ak Orda Residence (translated from the Kazakh language as "White Headquarters") is the official workplace of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Located on the left bank of the Ishim embankment, this snow-white ensemble acts as the compositional center of the capital, linking the city's key symbols into a single line: from Khan Shatyr and Baiterek to the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
The building embodies purity of thought, sincerity, and nobility, which is emphasized by the predominance of white – a sacred symbol in the culture of Turkic peoples.
The palace harmoniously combines European monumentality and Oriental motifs expressed in ornamental decor and dome solutions. "Ak Orda" is not just the headquarters of the highest authority, but also a unique artistic object, whose interiors house a rich collection of Kazakh fine art representing steppe civilization in a modern interpretation.
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How to get there and visit -
Ak Orda is located on the left bank of the Ishim River at the address: 1 Nurzhol Boulevard, left bank of the Ishim River, Yesil district, Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 51°07'32"N 71°26'46"E
The site can be reached by numerous bus routes: No. 10, 12, 15, 18, 19, 21, 28, 32, 35, 40, 46, 50, 52, 54, 70, and others to the "Ak Orda" or "Orynbor Street" stops.
It should be noted that the residence is a restricted facility and is closed to free public access inside; however, the square in front of the palace with its fountains and flower alleys is open for walking and photography.
Contacts: +7 7172 74 40 51
Email: press@akorda.kz
Official website of Ak Orda
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History
Construction of the residence began in September 2001 on the left bank of the Ishim. Architects and builders of 26 nationalities worked on the creation of this vital state facility, including famous European designers M. Gualazzi and A. Molteni.
The official presentation of the new palace took place on December 24, 2004. The name "Ak Orda" carries deep meaning, referring to the historical headquarters of the Kazakh khans and symbolizing the continuity of power and loyalty to national origins.
Over the years of its existence, the residence has witnessed the most important summits and visits by world leaders. Its image has been captured on national currency banknotes, highlighting the object's status as a national treasure. The architectural ensemble of "Ak Orda" became the starting point for shaping the look of all modern Astana, turning a former provincial town into a recognizable world capital.
Information
The height of the building, including the spire, is 86 meters, and its total area exceeds 36,700 square meters. The palace is crowned with a blue and gold dome, atop which is a spire with a golden statue: a sun with 32 rays and a steppe eagle soaring beneath it. The facade is clad in Italian marble, the thickness of which reaches 40 cm, ensuring the building's durability and majestic appearance.
The internal structure of the palace is thought out to the smallest detail and includes five above-ground floors. On the first floor (12 meters high), there is a Central Grand Hall with an area of 1,800 square meters featuring a grand crystal chandelier. Also located here are the Winter Garden with a marble fountain, the Solemn Hall, and a press center.
The second floor is occupied by work offices, while the third and fourth floors are reserved for international meeting halls, a library, and government meeting rooms.
Detailed description of the object
Each of the residence's halls has a unique interior. On the third floor, there are thematic rooms: the Marble Hall for signing documents, the Golden Hall for meetings in a narrow circle, and the Oriental Hall, stylized as a yurt and finished with granite. The residence's floors are works of art made of 21 types of marble and artistic parquet.
The territory around "Ak Orda" is landscaped with extreme care. The ceremonial square emphasizes the austerity of the main facade, and a decorative fence with night lighting creates the effect of a floating building in the dark. Fountains and flower alleys before the entrance make this place one of the most beautiful in the capital, where official solemnity meets the hospitality of a park zone connecting the residence with Presidential Park.
Architecture
The style of "Ak Orda" is a synthesis of Neoclassicism and Eurasian Modernism. The building's monolithic concrete structure is hidden under rich marble finishing. Special importance is given to symbolism: circles and national ornaments in the decor symbolize infinity and unity.
The building's dome is not just an architectural element but a metaphor for the celestial vault uniting East and West. Each floor is designed taking into account the highest engineering standards, allowing "Ak Orda" to remain one of the most high-tech administrative buildings in Central Asia.
Legend
People say that "Ak Orda" is the "White Lighthouse" of the steppe, pointing the way for the whole country. There is a belief that the crystal chandelier in the central hall is so charged with the energy of creation that its light brings clarity of mind to everyone under the dome.
Old-timers say that during construction, symbols of peace from representatives of all nationalities who worked on the project were laid into the foundation, making this place a point of absolute harmony.
It is believed that the golden eagle on the spire does not sleep day or night, guarding the peace of citizens and the purity of thoughts within the palace walls.
For the residents of Astana, "Ak Orda" is a symbol that on empty ground, led by dream and will, people are capable of erecting a palace worthy of a great history. This is a place where every stone breathes modernity but remembers the call of ancestors, creating a unique aura of power and prosperity.
Interesting landmarks nearby:
• National Academic Library;
• National Archives of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
• Korme Exhibition Center;
• Roza Baglanova Central Concert Hall;
• Government House of the RK;
• Supreme Court of the RK;
• Parliament Building of the RK;
• Keruen Shopping and Entertainment Center.
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