The Newest Subway in the World

The Atlantic Cities has posted a photo essay of the world's newest subway system, which opened on December 1, 2011 in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

1 minute read

January 27, 2012, 8:00 AM PST

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj

The pristine and sparkling system was begun in 1988, when Kazakhstan was part of the Soviet Union. After the fall of the USSR the project came to a halt, until it was revived in 2005.

"The architecture of many of the stations retains the tubular aesthetic of early visions of the subway, with curving vaults decorated with marble and classical ornamentation, or clean swaths of solid-color paneling. Some are festooned with elaborate light fixtures and stained glass, giving a historic flavor to the station interiors. Evidently, the once revolutionary concept of underground transportation has not lost all its shine," writes Kelly Chan.

FULL STORY: In Kazakhstan, A Beautiful, Futuristic New Subway System

Thursday, January 26, 2012 in The Atlantic Cities

Transportation Europe Kazakhstan Almaty Metro

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.