A transparent tent of soaring proportions, Khan Shatyr rises 150 meters above Astana as the world’s highest structure of its kind, merging neo-futurist design with Central Asian architectural tradition.
At a glance
Khan Shatyr—meaning “Royal Marquee” in Kazakh—is an iconic contemporary landmark combining cutting-edge engineering with cultural symbolism. The tent’s elliptical base spans 200 meters and encloses 140,000 square meters of space. Its transparent design allows natural light to flood the interior, creating an ethereal quality both day and night.
History
Inaugurated in 2010, Khan Shatyr was designed by the internationally acclaimed architecture firm Foster + Partners. The project represents a bold statement in Astana’s rapid urban transformation, positioning the capital city as a hub of architectural innovation and modern development.
What you see
The structure employs a neo-futurist aesthetic that reinterprets the traditional Central Asian yurt through contemporary materials and engineering. Its translucent fabric envelope is supported by a sophisticated cable-and-mast system, creating a tent form that appears weightless against the sky. The 150-meter height makes it visible from across the city, functioning as both functional space and sculptural landmark.
Cultural significance
Khan Shatyr bridges Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage with its ambitions as a modern nation-state. The tent references the yurt, the traditional portable dwelling of Kazakh peoples, while its neo-futurist execution celebrates technological progress. The building has become emblematic of Astana’s identity as a 21st-century capital.
Key facts
- Address: Turan Ave 37, Astana 020000, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 51.1321314, 71.4059226
- Height: 150 meters
- Base dimensions: 200-meter elliptical footprint
- Total area: 140,000 square meters
- Architect: Foster + Partners
- Completed: 2010
Practical information
Opening hours and admission details are not listed; check the official website or contact the venue directly for current visitor information.
Getting there
Khan Shatyr is located on Turan Avenue in central Astana. The venue’s prominent height makes it easily identifiable from across the city. Public transportation connections and detailed directions are available through local tourism information.
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