Astana, now known as Nur-Sultan, is the capital city of Kazakhstan. It became the capital in 1997, replacing Almaty. The city is located in the northern part of the country and is known for its modern architecture and rapid development. Nur-Sultan features several notable landmarks, including the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. The city experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. It serves as a political, cultural, and economic center for Kazakhstan.