Еhe first stone laid in the foundation of the new museum building. On August 29, 2025, through the direct initiative and support of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev, the first stone and capsule were laid in the foundation of the new Atyrau Regional Museum of History and Local Lore and a 1,200-seat concert hall in the city of Atyrau. This event marks the beginning of the construction of a major cultural center — a cradle of art and enlightenment, a source of inspiration for creative collectives and young talents, and a sacred place that will preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of the Kazakh people.

      In his congratulatory speech, Akim of the Atyrau Region Serik Shapkenov emphasized: “Atyrau Region is one of the regions rich in art and culture. The new cultural center, whose foundation we are laying today, will consist of three parts: the Regional Museum of History and Local Lore, a modern cinema and concert hall for 1,200 spectators, and a center named after the great Kurmangazy, whose architectural design will be shaped like the Kazakh dombra,” he said. People’s Artist of Kazakhstan, dombra virtuoso Aigul Ulkenbayeva, noted: “On our sacred Atyrau land, where the breath of history comes alive, today we are laying the foundations of two significant cultural landmarks. These modern architectural structures will become sacred places where future generations will learn the history of our country and the path of their ancestors, strengthen the nation’s spirit, and hear the beauty of Kazakh songs and kuis.”

      These buildings, by their scale and significance, will take a worthy place among Kazakhstan’s largest cultural institutions and become one of the country’s leading spiritual centers — a place for collecting, preserving, and promoting the rich historical and cultural heritage of the nation. They are more than architectural structures — they are a symbol of spiritual revival, a golden bridge of national culture, and a beacon of art and enlightenment. The ceremonial foundation laying of the long-awaited Cultural Center was conducted by Akim of Atyrau Region S. Shapkenov, Chairman of the Council of Veterans M. Oteshov, and People’s Artist of Kazakhstan, dombra player A. Ulkenbayeva. For the people of Atyrau, this future Cultural Center will undoubtedly become a hub of spirituality, honoring and perpetuating the great legacy of the Kazakh nation. This historic moment marks the beginning of an invaluable heritage to be passed on to future generations!