The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan comprises 20 exhibition halls. Sixteen of which are permanent and four temporary.
Atrium
Its main function is to serve as a comfortable visitor area for visitors. It accommodates all visitor services, from purchasing tickets and booking guided tours to buying locally produced souvenirs, exploring the “Altyn Qyran” exhibit, the historical and territorial map of Kazakhstan, the halls of temporary exhibitions and the sculpture gallery, as well as the collection of the scientific library in the reading room.
The Atrium is the starting point of guided tours, where visitors receive information about the National Museum, its collections, and all exhibition halls.
The Paleontology Hall
Millions of years before the appearance of humankind, the Earth was inhabited by a great variety of plants and animals. Some life forms became extinct, while others emerged anew, forming a continuous history of the evolution of life nature over hundreds of millions of years.
The Paleontology Hall of the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan reveals this history through a coherent and visually engaging exhibition, enabling visitors to trace the evolution of life through time. The territory of Kazakhstan, located in the heart of Eurasia, played an important role in the formation and migration of ancient fauna. Today, more than 600 paleontological sites are known here, many of which are of global scientific significance. Kazakhstani scientists have discovered about 1,000 ancient species previously unknown to science.
The exhibition of the hall is composed of three main sections.
The first section is dedicated to the Cenozoic Era (Paleogene, Neogene, Quaternary). It features the skeletons of a mammoth and a giant deer, mammoth tusks, as well as horns and bone remains of the woolly rhinoceros. The display case “Fauna of the Quaternary” presents the remains of bison, aurochs, prehistoric forest elephants, and other animals. The Neogene is represented by materials from the natural monument “Goose Flight” and a reconstructed skeleton of Hipparion. The Paleogene is illustrated by reconstructions and authentic bones of the giant rhinoceros Paraceratherium and Brontotherium.
The second section reflects the Mesozoic Era (Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous). Special attention is given to the Cretaceous Period: the display case “Dinosaurs of Kazakhstan” presents reconstructions and illustrations of prehistoric reptiles. The central exhibit is a Tyrannosaurus skeleton. The Jurassic and Triassic periods are presented through images of fish and reptiles from the Karatau Jurassic Lake site, the largest Jurassic fauna site in Kazakhstan. The third section is dedicated to the Paleozoic Era and includes fossils of ancient marine organisms such as brachiopods, corals, bryozoans, and crinoids, as well as fragments of petrified wood.
Additional and more detailed information is available to visitors through modern interactive touch-screen devices and multimedia kiosks.
The Hall of Ancient and Medieval History
The Hall of Ancient and Medieval History is a unique exhibition space that comprehensively reflects the process of formation and development of human civilization on the territory of Kazakhstan from earliest antiquity to the Middle Ages. Presented in chronological order and following established scholarly principles, the exhibition traces the historical path from stone tools discovered at sites of the early prehistoric humans – who first set foot on the land of present-day Kazakhstan about one million years ago – to the high cultural achievements of the Great Steppe civilization.
The exhibition covers four main historical periods: the Stone Age, the Bronze Age, the Early Iron Age, and the Middle Ages. The Stone Age section features archaeological finds that illustrate the lifestyle and labor activities of the first humans, as well as valuable artifacts from the unique Botai culture of the transitional Eneolithic period, which played a special role in the emergence of nomadic civilization.
The Bronze Age display presents, alongside weapons, tools, and jewelry reflecting the economic practices, military affairs, and spiritual world of our ancestors, outstanding examples of metallurgical and metal-casting craftsmanship, attesting to the high level of metallurgical development on the territory of Kazakhstan.
The Early Iron Age section reveals the traditions of equestrian culture, the military power, and the worldview of Saka society through horse equipment, weaponry, and works of art created in the animal style art, which occupies a special place in the history of world art. The Middle Ages section introduces visitors to the development of trade, urban life, and the high level of craftsmanship in historic cities that emerged along the Great Silk Road.
The exhibition is complemented by anthropological reconstructions based on archaeological research, as well as modern interactive touchscreen kiosks that allow visitors to gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the history of civilization within the territory of Kazakhstan. The Hall of Ancient and Medieval History is an educational space that conveys the depth of national history, the enduring spirit of the Great Steppe, and the continuity of civilizational heritage.
The Gold Hall No. 1
The Gold Hall No. 1 is an exhibition space dedicated to the archaeological sites of Kazakhstan from the Bronze Age to the Early Iron Age. The exhibition reveals the millennia-long history of the formation of the civilization of the Great Steppe, demonstrating a high level of social development, craftsmanship, technological knowledge, and spiritual beliefs of the ancient peoples who inhabited the territory of present-day Kazakhstan.
The central conceptual and symbolic image of the hall is the mythical Baiterek Tree – a key symbol of the Turkic worldview, embodying the connection between the sky, the earth, and the underworld. This image sets the conceptual framework of the entire exhibition, uniting different archaeological periods into a single historical and cultural narrative.
Considerable attention is given to the development of mining and metallurgy, which since the Bronze Age became one of the foundations of the region’s economic and cultural strength. Archaeological finds from ancient deposits in Central, Eastern, and Northern Kazakhstan (Atasu, Myrzhik, Taldysai, Kalba, Narym) attest to the existence of major metallurgical centers and sophisticated technologies for the extraction, smelting, and processing of metals. The reconstructed “Metal Smelting Workshop”, featuring an ancient koruk furnace (a traditional smelting furnace), vividly illustrates the process of producing jewelry and everyday objects.
Sections devoted to the Bronze Age and the Andronovo culture (3rd-2nd millennia BCE) reflect the emergence of social hierarchy and the development of jewelry-making, ceramics, and other crafts. The transition to the Early Iron Age (1st millennium BCE) is represented by materials from the Saka, Sarmatian, and Hunnic tribes, whose cultures were shaped under conditions of nomadic and semi-nomadic lifestyles.
The culmination of the exhibition is marked by unique discoveries associated with the image of the “Golden Man” – the Saka warrior from the Issyk kurgan, who became a symbol of ancient statehood and the artistic genius of steppe civilizations – as well as artifacts from the burial complexes of Taldy-2, Araltobe, and Shilikty. Taken together, the Gold Hall No. 1 exhibition provides a holistic understanding of Kazakhstan as one of the most important centers of ancient metallurgy, culture, and civilizational development in Eurasia.
The Gold Hall No. 2
The Gold Hall No. 2 is dedicated to the flourishing of Saka-Sarmatian artistic heritage and the subsequent stages in the development of the nomadic civilizations of the Great Steppe. The exhibition reveals the worldview concepts of ancient societies through works of the animal style art – a unique artistic phenomenon in which the animal imagery served as an expression of cosmological, religious, and socio-political ideas. The symbolism of the argali, snow leopard, eagle, and horse is interpreted as the embodiment of strength, power, sacred knowledge, and the connection between the three realms of existence.
The central focus of the hall is on reconstructions of outstanding burial complexes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the ritual practices and worldview of ancient nomads. Among them are the Berel kurgan with its ceremonially adorned horses, as well as reconstructions of the Shilikty and Eleke Sazy sites, the burial complex of the Urzhar Priestess, the Taksai Priestess, and the Sarmatian chiefs from Araltobe and Taskopa. These complexes demonstrate a high level of social stratification, a well-developed ritual culture, and the exceptional craftsmanship of jewelers and artisans.
The exhibition also reflects the cultural heritage of the Kangju state and Kimak Khaganate periods, illustrating the dynamics of ethno-cultural and political processes that took place on the territory of present-day Kazakhstan in antiquity and the early Middle Ages. The artifacts on display – ceramics, weapons, gold ornaments, elements of horse harness, and mirrors – attest to a high level of material culture, extensive cultural connections, and the profound spiritual traditions of the peoples of the Great Steppe.
The Hall of Stone Sculptures of the Great Steppe
The hall is dedicated to the history and culture of the ancient Turks – a people who played a significant role in the formation of statehood and the civilizational space of Eurasia. It presents the prehistory of the emergence of the Turkic Khaganate, from the ethnogenesis of the Turks and the legend of the Ashina clan to the establishment in the 6th century of a powerful nomadic empire that united territories from East Asia to the North Caucasus under its rule. The importance of the Khaganate as a major power that influenced the political map of the Ancient World is emphasized.
Special attention is given to written monuments, above all the Orkhon inscriptions, discovered in the 19th century and deciphered by V. Thomsen. These sources not only record political history and the activities of outstanding rulers – Kül Tegin, Bilge Khagan, and Tonyukuk – but also provide insight into the spiritual ideals, social organization, and diplomatic relations of the Turks. Thanks to these inscriptions, it has become possible to study the evolution of early statehood and the formation of Turkic civilization.
A separate section is devoted to balbals – stone sculptures that serve as a valuable source of knowledge about the spiritual life of the Turks. These monuments reflect ideas about the cult of ancestors, social status, and the appearance of nomads of the 6th-8th centuries. The realism and detailed execution of the sculptures make it possible to reconstruct elements of costume, weaponry, and accessories, as well as the symbolism of commemorative rituals.
The exhibition reveals the comprehensive development of Turkic civilization: from ethnogenesis and the formation of the first states to the emergence of writing, socio-political organization, military power, and spiritual culture. This demonstrates the significant contribution of the Turks to world history and highlights their role in the process of forming early state entities across the vast expanse of Eurasia.
The Golden Horde Hall (13th-15th Centuries)
In the 13th century, the descendants of Jochi, the eldest son of Genghis Khan stood at the head of powerful state that stretched across vast territories across Eurasia. It was known as the Ulug Ulus or the Ulus of Jochi, and became known in Russian and Western European chronicles as the Golden Horde. Its history is closely connected with the Kazakh steppes and the tribes that formed the ethnic and cultural foundation of the modern Kazakh people.
In the exhibition, visitors can see the genealogy of the khans of the Golden Horde, as well as archaeological finds such as silver and copper coins, a composite bow, arrowheads, water jugs, ceramic bricks, vessels, and lamps discovered during cities of the Golden Horde. Of particular interest are the gold ornaments and coins from the famous Sairam Hoard treasure.
The Hall “History of Kazakhstan, 13th-20th Centuries”
The exhibition hall dedicated to the history of Kazakhstan covers the period from the 13th to the 20th centuries. The display includes historical artifacts, documents, and memorial items related to the formation of the Kazakh Khanate, it’s foreign policy, the institutions of batyrs and biys, the national liberation movement, prominent figures in education, and the establishment of the Soviet era.
The Period of the Kazakh Khanate (15th-19th Centuries)
This was a time when various ethnic and political forces united, laying the foundation for the emergence of an independent khanate. The exhibition presents unique materials reflecting the key stages in the formation and development of the Kazakh Khanate, as well as attributes of power symbolizing the authority and prestige of Kazakh rulers. Among the exhibits are chapans, copies of seals belonging to Tole Bi, Kazybek Bi, and Ablai Khan, as well as various items used to demonstrate power and social status. These include the murak – a luxurious traditional headdress decorated with ornaments and symbolizing affiliation with the Chinggisid lineage – finials of banners, the asatayak, gilded helmets, and other elements of armament.
The collection also features examples of offensive and defensive arms, notably the sword of Zhankozha Batyr and the saber of a warrior of Kenesary Khan, Zhanaydar Orynbaiuly. A special place is occupied by the seals of qazis and aul (village) elders, as well as weapons used both in the Kazakh and Russian armies of that period.
The Period “History of Kazakhstan, 19th-20th Centuries”
The history of Kazakhstan in the 19th and 20th centuries is marked by dramatic events and profound contradictions. The exhibition devoted to outstanding figures of the Kazakh people of this era includes the tegene of Aiganym, the grandmother of Sh. Ualikhanov; the flask and samovar of the great poet Abai Kunanbayev; his first published collection of poems; and personal belongings of K. Munaitpasov, the first professional wrestler in the history of the Kazakh people. The section dedicated to the Alash Party and the deputies of the First and Second State Dumas presents the seals of the Alashorda People’s Council, minutes of the First and Second All-Kazakh Congresses, the wristwatch and ruler of A. Ermekov, the briefcase of M. Zhumabayev, rubles issued by the Provisional and Soviet governments, weapons and clothing from the Civil War period, as well as copies of historical photographs and documents related to political repression, deportation, and other exhibits illustrating the establishment of Soviet power in Kazakhstan.
In the section devoted to the period of the Great Patriotic War (World War II), visitors can see a letter from Hero of the Soviet Union B. Momyshuly addressed to his friend, the dagger of K. Kaisenov, orders and medals of war participants, their documents, a 1940 helmet, a Degtyaryov machine gun, field equipment, and other valuable exhibits.
Ethnography Hall No. 1
The exhibition of the hall presents the traditional portable felt dwelling of nomadic Kazakhs – the kiiz ui (yurt). The yurt is a mobile, a highly practical and convenient dwelling: it can be rapidly assembled and disassembled, easily transported on camels and horses, and its felt covering protects against moisture and dust. It remains cool during hot summer days and warm in winter.
The main factor that shaped the development of Kazakh society was nomadic pastoralism. The development of agriculture and hunting also played an important role. The exhibition features artifacts characteristic of livestock breeding and farming, as well as implements used in hunting. A vivid sphere of the Kazakh people’s distinctive creativity is traditional applied arts and crafts. Through objects created by skilled craftsmen, the ethnography hall presents various areas of traditional crafts and applied arts, including leatherworking, felt-making, weaving and carpet-making, reed mat weaving, embroidery, artistic wood and bone carving, jewelry making, and others.
The section devoted to traditional Kazakh clothing is represented by unique examples: a 19th-century bride’s costume from the West Kazakhstan region; the attire of Khansha Fatima, the wife of Khan Zhangir, dating to the 19th century; everyday women’s clothing from North Kazakhstan of the 19th century; national garments for girls from the 18th century; and a women’s fur coat from the 20th century.
Ethnography Hall No. 2
An important part of the collection consists of jewelry, examples of traditional Kazakh clothing, household objects made of felt, various types of carpets, and furniture. The national ornaments of the Kazakh people are priceless works of jewelry craftsmanship. They were worn not only for their beauty, but also as protective amulets against the evil eye. Carpet works make up a significant portion of the collection. The techniques and skills of carpet weaving have been passed down from generation to generation from ancient times. A special place in the hall is occupied by felt items such as syrmak, tekemet, tuskiiz, and alasha (traditional felt textiles), as well as traditional furniture and domestic utensils.
Ethnography Hall No. 3
The exhibition in this hall reflects the rich traditional culture of the Kazakh people. The main concept behind the creation of the hall is that by preserving tradition, we help revive our unique culture, which has been passed down from father to son for centuries. Close interaction with elderly members of the community promotes their social engagement and supports the dynamic continuity between generations, while also facilitating the transmission of knowledge and skills.
The intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Kazakhstan includes customs, forms of cultural expression and representation, knowledge and skills, as well as associated tools and objects, passed down through generations, which constitute invaluable elements of the nation’s intangible cultural heritage.
Yurt (Hall)
The hall’s exhibition features the traditional portable felt dwelling of nomadic Kazakhs – the kiiz ui (yurt). Every detail of the yurt demonstrates a distinctive style of craftsmanship. Rising against the blue sky, the shanyrak (the yurt’s crown) symbolizes eternity and well-being in the worldview of the ancient Turks. It is one of the oldest dwellings of nomads in Eurasia. In the traditional worldview of nomadic Kazakhs, the yurt is a cultural centerpiece, encompassing social, normative, and ritual aspects of the Kazakh life.
The Hall of “Independent Kazakhstan”
The “History of Independent Kazakhstan” hall features authentic documents that played a decisive role in the history of the country: the Declaration of State Sovereignty, the Law on the Renaming of the Kazakh SSR to the Republic of Kazakhstan, the decree appointing the First President, the Constitution, state symbols, examples of the first tenge banknotes and commemorative coins, as well as state awards.
The exhibition is complemented by personal collections of prominent figures who contributed to the development of science, culture, sports, and healthcare.
Among the unique exhibits are: the gold medal of Olympic boxing champion Bekzat Sattarkhanov (Sydney, 2000); a boxing glove signed by Olympic champion Serik Sapiyev; sports equipment belonging to Alia Yusupova, International Class Master of Sport and absolute Asian champion in rhythmic gymnastics; personal belongings of Dinmukhamed Kunaev, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan and prominent statesman and public figure; outerwear of statesman and public figure Zhumabek Tashenov; a chapan (traditional coat) of ethnographer Uzbekali Zhanibekov; a stage costume of Kazakhstan’s People’s Artist, Hero of the Nation Roza Baglanova; and the glasses of kyushy (composer and performer) and conductor Nurgisa Tlendiyev.
The “History of Independent Kazakhstan” hall is an integral part of the broader story of the nation, reflecting Kazakhstan’s spiritual wealth, historical continuity, and cultural heritage.
The Astana Hall
The hall is currently closed to visitors as work is underway to update the exhibition. It will reopen once the renovation of the exhibition is completed.
Fine Arts Hall No. 1
The Fine Arts Hall of the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan presents works of painting, sculpture, and graphics that offer comprehensive artistic reflection of the formation and historical development of the country’s artistic heritage. The exhibition traces the development of Kazakh visual art from the establishment of the professional school to the contemporary stage, where national traditions merge with contemporary artistic forms.
The painting section features a permanent collection covering half a century of Kazakh art. The works of A. Kasteev and N. Khludov, which paved the way for the professional development of Kazakh visual art and laid the foundation for the national artistic school, set the main direction of the Fine Arts Hall.
Artists of the next generation – K. Telzhanov, M. Kenbaev, A. Ysmailov, A. Galymbayeva, G. Ismailova, and S. Aitbaev – continued the creative legacy of their predecessors, authentically portraying the history, daily life, spiritual world, and national culture of the Kazakh people. Their works occupy a central place in the hall, forming the artistic core of the exhibition.
The exhibition also features works by contemporary painters – A. Sydykhanov, A. Akanaev, D. Aliev, E. Tolepbay, A. Kazygulov, K. Akhmetzhan, A. Esdauletov, K. Azhibekov, Zh. Musapir, U. Zhubaniyazov, and N. Bube – who harmoniously blend national identity with contemporary artistic trends. Contemporary artists explore themes such as spiritual and moral renewal, family values, the female image, unity with nature, and the interplay between urbanization and traditional culture.
Graphics and Sculpture Hall
The works presented in the Graphics and Sculpture Halls reflect the distinctive character of Kazakh visual art, its artistic traditions, and professional development. In the works of N. Mukhatayeva, A. Bilyk, A. Drevetsky, E. Mergenov, Sh. Tolesha, B. Tulekov, and K. Nurbatyrov, embody philosophical representations of both historical figures and ordinary people. Here, classical realism and contemporary forms harmonize here, offering the viewer a unique artistic experience.
The graphics section includes works executed in engraving, lithography, etching, linocut, watercolor, and pastel techniques. The works of R. Velikanova, N. Gaev, U. Azhiyev, E. Sidorkin, I. Isabayev, N. Ashtem, K. Zakirov, A. Bakhtygaliev, A. Rakhmanov, K. Kametov, and other masters blend folklore motifs, historical narratives, and contemporary ideas into expressive artistic compositions.