Fortress at the origin of Shymkent, the citadel was erected on a 25 m high headland. The residues of its foundations now overhang Aiteke Bi Avenue and its many building material shops.

The citadel was built to improve the protection of Sayram city, important stage on the Silk Road. It occupied 4 hectares, was surrounded by defensive walls and moats, and housed a well-armed military base.
The date of its construction is unknown, but it appears for the first time in a story in 1366.

In 1864, the citadel was taken by Russian troops led by the General Cherniaiev after a bloody battle.
Consequently, the city totally changed its face. The city centre was built more or less where is located the current centre, with European buildings to officially mark the new government regime.
Then, Shymkent became the capital of the region.

Historical patrimony of Shymkent, the old citadel doesn’t shows its real value. In open access, the place is strewed with litters, empty bottles and condoms, and limits between it and buildable lands are confused.