Medeu

Overview

Nestled in the picturesque Medeu Valley, on the southeastern outskirts of Almaty, Kazakhstan, lies Medeu, a renowned high-altitude sports complex and natural landmark. Situated at an impressive altitude of 1,691 meters (5,548 feet) above sea level, it is primarily famous for its iconic outdoor speed skating and bandy rink, recognized as one of the world's largest high-mountain skating facilities. Beyond its sporting prowess, Medeu serves as a gateway to the majestic Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a refreshing escape from urban life. It's a place where athletic achievement meets stunning natural beauty, drawing both locals and international visitors year-round.

History & Cultural Background

The history of Medeu is deeply intertwined with both local lore and Soviet-era ambition. The area, including the skating rink, was named after Medeu Pusurmanov, a local entrepreneur from the 19th century who played a role in developing the tract in the foothills of the Zailiysky Alatau. Construction of the legendary skating rink began in 1949, with its grand opening on February 4, 1951. Initially operating with natural ice, Medeu underwent a significant transformation in 1972 when it transitioned to an advanced artificial ice system, designed by Soviet engineers.

During its heyday, Medeu earned the esteemed nickname 'the factory of records' or 'forge of records,' as athletes consistently shattered speed skating records here, setting over 120 to 200 world records. It became a crucial training ground for Soviet athletes and hosted numerous prestigious international competitions, including the European Speed Skating Championships in 1974 and 1984, the 2011 Asian Winter Games, and the 2012 Bandy World Championship. Culturally, Medeu transcends its role as a sports venue; it is a monument of urban planning and architecture, symbolizing Kazakhstan's sporting heritage, national pride, and the harmonious blend of human endeavor with nature. It has also been the backdrop for various cultural events, concerts, and festivals.

What Makes It Special

What sets Medeu apart is a unique confluence of geographical attributes and human ingenuity. Its high altitude provides optimal conditions for speed skating, characterized by low atmospheric pressure, gentle winds, and ample solar radiation. The ice itself is crafted from the pure mountain water of the Malaya Almatinka River, contributing to its renowned 'superglidey' quality that once helped athletes achieve remarkable speeds.

Complementing the iconic rink is the Medeu Dam, an engineering marvel constructed between 1966 and 1980. This formidable mudflow protection dam, built using a pioneering method of controlled directional explosions, stands at an altitude of 1,750 meters. It was designed to shield Almaty from the destructive mudflows originating in the mountain gorges, and famously proved its worth by successfully holding back a significant mudflow in 1973, preventing widespread damage to the city. The dam, with its imposing structure and critical protective role, is a testament to the region's foresight and engineering prowess.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The very name 'Medeu' carries a piece of local history, honoring Medeu Pusurmanov, a figure from the late 19th century who initiated the development of this beautiful mountain tract. A captivating story from the Soviet era tells of how coaches discovered Kazakh athletes performing exceptionally well, attributing it to the 'faster ice' in Almaty. This observation led to the strategic choice of Medeu as the site for the new high-altitude skating rink, turning it into a 'forge of records' where over 200 world records were set.

For those seeking a physical challenge and stunning views, the 'Stairs of Medeu,' also known as the Health Staircase, offers an exhilarating experience. Comprising 842 steps, this climb leads visitors up to the top of the Medeu Dam, rewarding them with expansive vistas of the surrounding gorge and the ice rink below. It's a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts and photographers alike, with contests sometimes held to see who can ascend the fastest.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting Medeu today offers a diverse range of experiences, even if you are not a professional skater. While the ice rink itself is undergoing reconstruction until 2027 to meet modern international standards, the natural beauty and other attractions of the Medeu Valley remain fully accessible and continue to draw visitors.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the crisp mountain air, enjoy scenic walks, and capture stunning photographs of the dramatic landscapes. The challenging ascent of the 842 steps to the Medeu Dam is a rewarding endeavor, providing unparalleled views from its summit. Medeu also serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the wider Ile-Alatau National Park and is the lower station for a scenic cable car ride that ascends to the popular Shymbulak ski resort. This cable car journey itself offers breathtaking aerial perspectives of the valley and mountains. Whether you're interested in the area's rich sporting heritage, the impressive engineering of the dam, or simply wish to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Trans-Ili Alatau, Medeu provides a memorable mountain experience near Almaty.