Karaganda, a city in central Kazakhstan, stands as a major industrial, scientific, and cultural hub. It received city status on February 10, 1934. Karaganda’s well-designed layout, broad streets, and abundance of boulevards and parks make it a delightful city for leisurely strolls. The city center is particularly charming, composed mostly of architecturally significant buildings from earlier decades. Unlike other cities in Kazakhstan, Karaganda’s center has retained much of its original layout, with relatively few modern constructions. Many streets still bear their historical names, such as Mira Boulevard, Lenin Street, and the Street of Internationalist Soldiers.
A city tour might begin at the Cosmonautics Monument in Shalkyma Square. This landmark, unveiled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Independence and the 50th anniversary of the first human space flight, is visible from afar. The monument comprises a four-meter cosmonaut figure paired with a 36-meter spire, symbolizing humanity’s cosmic aspirations.
The Shalkyma Concert Hall, which once served as a departure point for Karaganda’s military units headed to the frontlines, is another significant stop. This historical and architectural landmark lies near Bukhar-Zhyrau Avenue, one of Karaganda’s main streets.
Another emblematic site is the “Miner’s Glory” monument, a recognizable tribute sculpted in 1975 by A. Bilyk and A. Malkov. Here, visitors can see numerous engravings and Soviet-era murals that echo the city’s mining heritage.
A walk through the Central Park of Culture and Leisure, named after the 30th anniversary of the All-Union Leninist Young Communist League (VLKSM), leads to the beloved Children’s Railway, a unique attraction for both young and old. Exiting the park, you can continue past the Palace of Miners’ Culture, Independence Stele, and the city’s main department store.
The Palace of Miners’ Culture features a grand hall with seating for 1,000, adorned with intricate wall reliefs, ornate cornices, and a multi-tiered ceiling highlighted by a painted ceiling medallion. A smaller hall seating 350 guests showcases thematic frescoes, while the grand vestibule is linked to a spacious, well-lit foyer via formal staircases. Built in 1950, the building’s facades are clad in terrazite, with a granite-finished base.
The Independence Stele, erected to mark the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence, stands proudly near where a statue of Lenin once stood. Crowned by an eagle perched on a sphere with the sun, the 47-meter-tall stele symbolizes freedom and unity.
Near Nurken Abdirov Street stands the famous monument “Where, Where?” — “In Karaganda!”
Karaganda is also home to two notable religious sites. The Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Fatima, Mother of All Nations, and the Karaganda Regional Central Mosque are both impressive for their size and architecture. The Catholic cathedral, resembling a medieval European castle from afar, serves as the seat of the Karaganda Diocese, led by Bishop Adelio Dell’Oro. It is the largest Catholic cathedral in Kazakhstan.
The Karaganda Regional Central Mosque, located in the Ethno-Park commemorating Kazakhstan’s 10th anniversary of independence, is an architectural marvel blending traditional Eastern design with modern aesthetics. This three-story mosque, with its four minarets standing at 51 meters, is crowned by a main dome reaching 12 meters, accompanied by eight smaller domes. Set within the expansive Ethno-Park, the mosque harmoniously merges spirituality and cultural heritage.
Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome
Explore historic launch pads
Tour the Space Museum
See iconic space artifacts
Witness rocket assembly facilities
Visit the Gagarin Start Pad