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The Glossary
Kyzylorda Travel Guide
Like most of its counterparts in the Republic of Kazakhstan, the city of Kyzylorda is a settlement that was originally established as a military fortress, in anticipation of invading armies from the different empires seeking territory in the Eurasian continent. Founded in 1820 by the Khoqands of Central Asia, it was eventually overrun by the stronger Soviet troops 33 years later. It is located in the southern part of the country, and had in the distant past been an essential part of the world-famous Silk Road trade routes.
The city lies in a region that is mostly a vast semi-desert, which characterizes the general Southern Kazakhstan landscape. It is also within close proximity of the infamous Aral Sea - then known as the fourth largest inland body of water on the planet - that has now all but dried up completely due to the irresponsible use of it by the Soviet Union for cotton irrigation. Kyzylorda is a worthwhile destination for tourists seeking a journey into the past, with its rich cultural and historical heritage. It has a sizable concentration of monuments, museums, mausoleums and archaeological sites.
On top of that, the city is near the site of the renowned Baikonour Cosmodrome, the world's first and biggest space launch site. It rose to instant fame with the launching of the Sputnik I, the first spacecraft in space, and the Vostok I, the first manned spacecraft that was piloted by the legendary Yuri Gagarin. Kyzylorda is also reputed to have been the home of a prominent 8th century figure in the region, Korkyt-Ata (frightening one), who is widely believed to be the first shaman in history. A memorial complex dedicated to his name can be seen in the area and it is part of the usual tourist itinerary.
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Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post
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