Kok Tobe (Blue Hill), Almaty (must see)

Blue Hill (Kök Töbe) is a significant mountain situated in Almaty, reaching an elevation of 1,100 meters above sea level. Beyond being a natural landmark, it serves as a focal point for cultural and recreational pursuits. Originally named Verigin until the 1960s, its history traces back to medieval times when it was dubbed "Blue Hill" by Verny merchants. For centuries, it has been a popular spot among Almaty residents, hosting summer May Day festivities and winter sports like skiing and sledding.

The evolution of Blue Hill into a technological and recreational hub began in the 1960s when the Ministry of Communications of Kazakhstan decided to erect a television broadcasting tower to cover the entire country. Construction of the Almaty TV tower, led by architects N.G. Terziev, A.N. Savchenko, and N.K. Akimov commenced in 1978 on the mountain due to its height and strategic significance. Despite challenges like unstable soil, the tower was completed, serving as a monumental symbol visible across Almaty.

Construction of the tower faced various engineering hurdles, such as the need to lessen its weight due to the loose soil by employing metal beams and aluminum sheathing. The tower's base alone weighs 45 thousand tons, supporting the entire structure standing at 372 meters tall, with an additional antenna mast stretching another 114 meters. Initially broadcasting 6 TV and 4 radio channels, the tower expanded to 14 of each after a reconstruction in 2001.

However, in 2004, the mountain faced instability due to landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, resulting in the temporary closure of the area. Measures were taken to stabilize the slope and remove illegally constructed buildings, leading to the establishment of Kók Töbe Park in 2006. Today, the park is a major attraction, boasting features like a "fountain of desires," playgrounds, a Ferris wheel, and a rope park, making Kök Töbe a beloved destination for both tourists and locals in Almaty.