Bishkek

Michael Frunze Statue vor dem Bahnhof von Bischkek

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Alma-Ata NK-43 (1948) - panoramio

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Russian Orthodox cathedral in Bishkek.jpg

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Bishkek is the capital city and the largest city of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated in the Chuy Valley at the northern edge of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Range, an extension of the Tien Shan mountain range. Bishkek is the political, economic, and cultural center of Kyrgyzstan.

History

Bishkek was founded in 1825 as a Kokand fortress called "Pishpek." In 1878, it was annexed by the Russian Empire and renamed "Bishkek." During the Soviet era, the city was renamed "Frunze" in honor of the Bolshevik military leader Mikhail Frunze. In 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the city reverted to its original name, Bishkek.

Geography

Bishkek is located at an altitude of about 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level. The city covers an area of 127 square kilometers (49 square miles). It is bordered by the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Range to the south and the Chuy River to the north.

Climate

Bishkek has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in January is around -1°C (30°F), while in July, it averages 24°C (75°F). The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 440 millimeters (17 inches).

Demographics

As of the latest census, Bishkek has a population of approximately 1 million people. The city is ethnically diverse, with significant populations of Kyrgyz, Russians, Uzbeks, and other ethnic groups.

Economy

Bishkek is the economic hub of Kyrgyzstan. The city's economy is based on industry, commerce, and services. Key industries include textiles, food processing, and machinery. The city also hosts numerous markets and shopping centers.

Education

Bishkek is home to several higher education institutions, including the Kyrgyz National University, the American University of Central Asia, and the Kyrgyz State Medical Academy. These institutions attract students from across the region.

Culture

Bishkek is a cultural center with numerous theaters, museums, and galleries. Notable cultural institutions include the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts, the State History Museum, and the Bishkek Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Transportation

Bishkek is served by the Manas International Airport, which connects the city to various international destinations. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trolleybuses, and marshrutkas (shared taxis).

Landmarks

Some of the notable landmarks in Bishkek include:

• Ala-Too Square
• Victory Square
• Osh Bazaar
• Panfilov Park
• Dordoy Bazaar

Sister Cities

Bishkek has several sister cities, including:

• Ankara, Turkey
• Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
• Tashkent, Uzbekistan

See Also

• Kyrgyzstan
• Chuy Valley
• Kyrgyz Ala-Too Range
• Tien Shan