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The Medeu (Kazakh: Медеу, Medeu) is an outdoor speed skating and bandy rink. It is located in a mountain valley (Medeu Valley, or the valley of Malaya Almatinka River) on the south-eastern outskirts of Almaty, Kazakhstan. Medeu sits 1,691 metres above sea level. It consists of 10.5 thousand square meters of ice and utilizes a sophisticated freezing and watering system to ensure the quality of the ice.

Key Information

History

[edit]

The Medeu is a high-altitude sports complex near Almaty, located at an altitude of 1,691 meters above sea level. It is considered to be the world's largest high-mountain skating rink. The skating rink was named after the Maloalmatinsky volost Medeu Pusurmanov. He built three wooden huts for the wintering of his family there, and began the development of the tract in the foothills of the Zailiysky Alatau. Medeu became a well-known entrepreneur, patron of educational institutions, and participated in the planting of the city.[citation needed]

In 1930, a sanatorium was opened in the area named "MDO" (Local holiday home). Construction of the skating rink began in the fall of 1949, and the first competition took place at the stadium on 4 February 1951. The capital of the Kazakh SSR was responsible for building the new skating rink. The complex was meant to prepare athletes for competitions in the highlands. The site was chosen by a special commission from Moscow. The construction of the Medeu rink involved over 1,300 workers.[citation needed]

On the opening day of the skating rink (5 February 1951), it established two world and six all-Union records. During the opening ceremony, a traditional parade of athletes was held, honoring the veteran skaters. For the following 17 seasons, 47 world records were established on the ice rink. The level of solar radiation in the area, as well as low pressure and a weak wind were thought to be key aspects in numerous world records being broken at the complex. Also, the ice used on the skating rink was thought to be an important factor as it was composed of water from Malya Almatinka (providing high sliding speeds).[citation needed]

In 1972, the Medeu started its own system of artificial ice. This was carried out by a team of Soviet engineers (and remains until the present). The site's artificial ice covers the entire site (a total of 10.5 thousand square meters). The Ministry of Highways renovated and asphalted the road from Abai Avenue to the Medeu, building two bridges through Malaya Almatinka. The Medeu eventually evolved from a sports facility into a major recreation space.

In the stands, the complex seated 10.5 thousand people. The complex also included cloakrooms, buffets designed for 500 people, a hotel for athletes, a bottling room, a room with a film projector, rooms for judges, a press center, a bathhouse and rental points for skates. In 1974, Medeu hosted the European Speed Skating Championships in its arena. In the second half of the 80s, it was closed for reconstruction, stretching for seven years.

Reconstruction

[edit]

From September 2001 to December 2002, a reconstruction of the Medeu was carried out. During this time a new refrigerating plant was installed by the Finnish company BG International. This involved 140 km of pipelines, and filling a new concrete foundation in the field. The main part of engineering systems was replaced, a new refrigerating station was installed Builders also increased the comfort of the stands, reducing their capacity to 8100 people.[1]

The Medeu was fully renovated in 2011 for the Asian Winter Games, and became a major training base for the ice skaters of the USSR. Over 200 speed world records were set there in numerous sports, including speed skating and others. Medeu remains an important centre for the training of winter sports athletes from Kazakhstan and other regions. Over 120 World Records have been documented there in numerous sports, including speed skating and others.[2][3] In 1972, the rink made a transition from natural ice rink to artificial ice rink.[4]

The other main attraction at Medeu is the dam across the valley. The Medeu Dam, built in the late 1960s, is located south of the skating rink. The dam has 3 successive altitude levels. Special water reservoir allows holding of approximately 6 million cubic meters of water. Stairs consisting of 842 steps were built to access the dam.[5] It dam was built to protect Almaty from potentially stone and mudflows precipitated by rains and thawing of snow. The dam was called into action in 1973, when some 4.5 million cubic metres of water and debris, flooding down the gorge, were stopped short here.[6]

2011 Winter Asian Games

[edit]
The final of the bandy tournament at 2011 Asian Winter Games between Kazakhstan and Mongolia, which was attended by President Nursultan Nazarbayev.[7][8]

On 4 March 2006, Kazakhstan received the right to host the 2011 Asian Games. The Winter Asian Games were the largest scale competition ever to take place in Kazakhstan, and took place from 30 January until 6 February (2006). While a large portion of the events took place in Astana, Almaty hosted a number of the events, including ski jumping, cross-country skiing, and others. Medeu was set to host bandy.

As a result, in 2009 the Medeu stadium was renovated, reopening on 16 December after undergoing 19.4 billion tenge (US$131.8 million) in construction costs.[9]

The Medeu stadium and ski resort Shymbulak underwent major reconstruction during the preparations for 2011 Asian Winter Games. Most of their engineering and technical systems were replaced. It also incorporated a new refrigeration station for cooling the ice. It established a new multimedia display area of 200 m2. Capacity of spectator stands increased to 8500 seats.[10]

2012 Bandy World Championship

[edit]

From 29 January to 5 February 2012, the XXXII Bandy World Championship took place at the Medeu. The right to host the WCS was given to Kazakhstan on 28 January 2011 at the congress of the Federation of International Bandy (held in Kazan).[11] Fourteen teams attended the world championship.[12][13] In the final game, the Russian team lost to the Swedish team (4:5). The Kazakh team won the third place by defeating the Finnish team (10:5).

Current use

[edit]

Medeu maintains its status as one of the best-known tourist locations in Kazakhstan. The stadium is open to the public all year round, allowing visitors to skate at high altitude day or night. During night hours, skaters can enjoy music and lights in the stadium either from the ice, or from VIP boxes available for rent.[14]

The Medeu stadium and Dam also remain the location for Almaty's International Medeu-marathon. During this event, competitors run up from the city o this well-known location, climbing almost 1000 vertical meters before returning to Almaty to finish.[15]

The 2017 Winter Universiade took place in Almaty; for which Medeu was used for speed skating.

On 1 June 2022, Medeu opened its summer roller skating season. The stadium switched to a year-round format. 450 square meters were allocated for an indoor ice court, the rest of the space was taken by a rollerdrome. The team of street art artists "Repas" realized an ambitious art project by creating in the center of the arena the biggest in Central Asia horizontal graffiti with an area of 4,000 square meters. On the south bend there is a photo-zone dedicated to the history of the stadium. Its main characters are the people who made Medeu a reality. Here you can find images of Kudryavtsev, Kunayev, and Pusurmanov.[16]

Competitions and significant events at Medeu HMSC

[edit]
Stamp for 1988 World Allround Speed Skating Championships for Men
  • 1974 - The Fifth European Championship in speed skating among women.
  • 1977 - USSR Hockey Championship - winner "Dynamo" (Alma-Ata).
  • 1977 - European Champions Cup in bandy - winner "Dynamo" (Alma-Ata).
  • 1982 - Festival of song, dance and sports on the 250th anniversary of the accession of Kazakhstan to Russia.
  • 1984 - The Ninth European Championship in speed skating among women.
  • 1988 - 81st World Championship in speed skating in classical all-round events (men).
  • 1989 - The final of the Individual World Championships in Motorcycling on Ice.
  • 1990 - The final of the World Team Championship in motorcycling on ice.
  • 1990 - The USSR Hockey Championship - the winner of "Dynamo" (Alma-Ata).
  • 1990 to 2004 - Annual summer pop competition "Asia Dauysy".
  • 2011 - Asian Winter Games 2011, bandy competitions were held under the program of the VII Winter Asian games (the final of Kazakhstan - Mongolia was attended by former President Nursultan Nazarbayev).
  • 2012 - The 32nd World Bandy Championship, the winners - Sweden, Russia, Kazakhstan.
  • 2014 (18–21 December) - World University Speed Skating Championships.
  • 2017 - Winter Universiade 2017.
  • 2020 - USSR Hockey Legends match against Kazakhstan Hockey Veterans.[17]
  • 2020 - Ice Speedway World Championship Finals.[18]
  • 2021 - Kazakhstan Speed Skating Cup.[19]

Tourism

[edit]

There are several hiking trails that originate from the Medeu main bus stop. There is access to the Shymbulak Skiing resort from the Medeu cable car station. This involves a 15–20 minute scenic ride above the area's mountain tops and rivers. Kimassar trail is a 2 hour hike to the top of Furmanov Peak, where hikers have access to swinging on iconic wooden swings. Kok-Zhailyau trail is a 3 hour hike, and leads to hot springs with thermal water (the place is equipped with changing booths, tiny thermal water pool and outdoors gym). Shymbulak trail is a 2 hour hike, and leads to Shymbulak Skiing resort.

From 14 October 2021, on the territory of the complex there is a parking lot for public electric transport, for the carriage of passengers along the route "Medeo-Shymbulak".[20]

[edit]

References

[edit]
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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Medeu

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Medeu is the world's highest outdoor and rink, situated in the Medeu Valley at an elevation of 1,691 meters (5,548 feet) above on the southeastern outskirts of , . Spanning 10,500 square meters of ice, it serves as a premier venue for and attracts visitors for its stunning alpine scenery amid the mountains. Renowned for its thin, high-altitude air that enhances athletic performance, Medeu has become a symbol of Kazakhstani sports heritage and a popular tourist destination. Construction of the Medeu rink began in the fall of under Soviet initiatives to develop high-altitude sports facilities, with the venue officially opening on February 5, 1951. On its inaugural day, athletes set two world records and six national records in , marking the start of its legacy in breaking barriers. Over the following 17 seasons, a total of 47 world records were established at the rink, contributed by international stars and Soviet competitors alike. The site is named after Medeu Pusurmanov, a 19th-century Kazakh entrepreneur and explorer who first documented the valley's natural beauty and resources. Beyond skating, Medeu forms part of a larger alpine sports complex that includes protective infrastructure like the Medeu Dam, constructed from 1966 to 1972 following the 1963 Issyk Lake disaster to prevent mudflows and flooding in . The facility has hosted major events, including tournaments and international competitions, while evolving to offer year-round attractions such as an indoor rink, museum, rollerdrome, and cable car access to nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort. As of November 2025, Medeu is undergoing a major two-year renovation (2025-2027) to modernize its infrastructure; the outdoor rink closed after the 2024-2025 season.

Geography and Setting

Location and Accessibility

The Medeu Sports Complex is situated in the Medeu Valley at the base of the mountains on the southeastern outskirts of , . Its precise geographic coordinates are 43°09′27″N 77°03′31″E, placing it at an elevation of 1,691 meters above . Approximately 15 kilometers southeast of city center, Medeu is seamlessly integrated with the adjacent through a dedicated cable car system that facilitates easy access between the two sites. Visitors can reach Medeu via several transportation options, including public buses such as line 12, which runs directly from central locations like the railway station to the complex; , which offer a convenient 20-30 minute ride from the city; and the Medeu Cable Car, operational since 2011, providing scenic ascent to higher elevations and Shymbulak. As of November 2025, the site is under major renovation (2025–2027), with the outdoor rink closed; check official updates for access to other facilities. This connectivity positions Medeu as a key component in 's broader landscape, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts to the mountainous periphery.

Altitude and Climate

Medeu is situated at an of 1,691 meters (5,548 ft) above in the Medeu Valley of the mountains near , , establishing it as the world's highest outdoor . This high-altitude position provides unique environmental conditions that enhance athletic performance, particularly in , due to the reduced air density at this . The climate at Medeu follows a continental pattern typical of the region, featuring cold, dry winters and mild summers, with an average temperature of approximately -10°C. The high results in thinner air with lower , which minimizes air resistance for skaters, allowing for higher velocities compared to sea-level venues. Additionally, the area's low humidity—often below 50% in winter—and pristine mountain air, free from urban pollution, create ideal conditions for maintaining high-quality surfaces that support record-breaking speeds. The itself benefits from the pure of the nearby Malaya Almatinka River, which contributes to its smooth and fast texture. Seasonal variations at Medeu align with its winter-focused operations, with the ice season spanning from October to April, when sub-zero temperatures and natural snowfall facilitate the preservation of the artificial ice layer. During this period, average winter humidity remains low, reducing fog formation and ensuring consistent visibility and ice quality for competitions and training. Summers, by contrast, see temperatures averaging around +20°C, prompting the rink's conversion to other activities until the cooler months return.

History

Construction and Early Years

The Medeu high-mountain skating rink originated as a natural ice venue, with construction beginning in the fall of 1949 under Soviet initiatives and officially opening on , 1951. On its inaugural day, athletes set two world records and six national records in . In 1970, the site was transformed into a state-of-the-art artificial venue, completed in 1972 as part of a Soviet initiative to enhance athletic training facilities for speed skaters preparing for international competitions, leveraging the unique high-altitude conditions of the to improve performance through thinner air and optimal ice quality. This project involved over 1,300 workers and reflected the Kazakh SSR's commitment to sports infrastructure during the Soviet era. The design was led by Kazakh architects Vladimir Katsev, Arystan Kainarbaev, and Irina Kosogova, with chief engineers Sergei Matveev and Mikhail Vlasov overseeing the technical aspects, including the innovative artificial freezing system that allowed year-round operation. Funded by the Kazakhstan SSR government, the facility was named after the Medeu tract and its historical association with Medeu Pusurmanov, a 19th-century local landowner who developed the area as a settlement. The rink was engineered as the world's largest high-altitude speed skating venue at the time, featuring an ice surface of 10,500 square meters and spectator stands accommodating up to 10,500 people, primarily for elite training and competitions. Medeu officially opened on December 28, 1972, marking a in Soviet sports development by providing a dedicated high-elevation arena that immediately set the stage for record-breaking performances. The first full season of operations with artificial ice occurred in 1973, hosting initial competitions that showcased its capabilities and attracted Soviet athletes for intensive training. In its first year, 249 out of 375 possible world records were set, contributing to over 120 records in the post-reconstruction era.

Reconstructions and Upgrades

In the second half of the 1980s, the Medeu underwent a major reconstruction, during which it was temporarily closed to enhance its and extend operational capabilities. The work lasted seven years. Following Kazakhstan's independence, renovations in the 2000s, including a 2004 reconstruction that reduced spectator capacity to 8,100 seats, focused on improvements. Preparations for the prompted significant infrastructure upgrades at Medeu, including repairs to seating that increased capacity from 7,200 to 8,500 spectators, installation of a new multimedia scoreboard, and enhancements to lighting systems. These changes, completed by early 2011, enabled the venue to host events during the games. Throughout the 2010s, ongoing maintenance addressed minor structural and operational issues to support and competitions, such as the 2012 held at the rink, ensuring alignment with international standards for ice quality and facility safety. In 2012, the refrigeration system received further updates for zoned , allowing consistent ice maintenance over an extended season from October to April.

Key Historical Events

During the Soviet era, Medeu served as a premier training facility for speed skaters, leveraging its high-altitude conditions to prepare athletes for international competitions, including those bound for the 1976 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The rink hosted the 1978 European Cup in bandy, where the home team Dynamo Alma-Ata secured victory, underscoring its role in Soviet winter sports dominance. From 1951 to 1980, Medeu facilitated numerous national and international contests in speed skating, ice hockey, and bandy, earning the nickname "forge of records" after athletes set over 160 world records across various distances, including 47 in the initial 17 seasons on natural ice. In the 1990s, following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, Medeu transitioned amid economic challenges, falling into partial disrepair but adapting for matches as the continued home venue for Dynamo Alma-Ata, which had previously claimed the Soviet Championship in 1990. The facility also hosted the Asia Dauysy cultural festival from 1990 to 2004, marking a shift toward recreational and national events in the post-Soviet landscape. Entering the early 2000s, Medeu underwent significant renovation in 2003, enhancing its infrastructure for and other disciplines while serving as a venue for preparatory activities tied to international student competitions like the Winter Universiade. A notable cultural milestone came in 1973, when a massive from the tested the protective , causing engineering strain but no catastrophic breach; subsequent reinforcements symbolized resilience against natural threats in the region. Post-1991, events at Medeu, including cultural festivals, began to embody Kazakh national identity, reflecting the site's evolution from Soviet sports asset to a emblem of independent Kazakhstan's heritage.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Ice Rink Specifications

The Medeu ice rink features a 400-meter oval track optimized for competitions, covering an surface area of 10,500 square meters. The track width measures 15 meters, accommodating standard configurations for multiple lanes as required by international standards. This design supports pair racing and mass start events while ensuring sufficient space for lane changes on the straights and curves. The system, implemented in 1972 to create artificial , relies on approximately 170 kilometers of embedded cooling distributed within a multi-layer foundation 2.3 meters thick. The system draws on pure glacial sourced from the Malaya Almatinka River to flood and maintain the surface, producing high-quality with minimal impurities for optimal glide. Electric chillers augment the natural high-altitude freezing conditions, enabling the rink to sustain for up to eight months annually and allowing year-round operation of the underlying track surface. Additional track features include a counterclockwise skating direction, consistent with protocols, and comprehensive floodlighting provided by 1,600 lamps mounted on eight masts to support evening and night sessions. The facility's offer seating for approximately 8,500 spectators, ensuring safe viewing during events. Safety measures include a robust protection dam constructed upstream between 1970 and 1975, with full operation achieved by 1972, designed to shield the rink and nearby areas from debris flows in the mountainous terrain. These specifications contribute to the rink's reputation for producing fast ice conditions that have facilitated over 100 world records in . As of 2025, the facility is undergoing renovation, with the outdoor rink closed since the end of the 2024-2025 season.

Additional Amenities and Systems

The Medeu sports complex features comprehensive spectator facilities designed to accommodate large crowds during events. During the 1970s expansions completed in 1972, covered stands were constructed with a capacity of approximately 8,500 seats, providing sheltered viewing areas for audiences. Adjacent amenities include restrooms integrated into the under-stand areas, along with concession spaces such as buffets capable of serving refreshments to visitors. These additions enhanced the overall visitor experience by offering convenient access to essential services without leaving the immediate vicinity of the rink. Utility systems at Medeu support reliable operations in its high-altitude environment. Water supply is sourced from the pure high-mountain streams of the Malaya Almatinka River, ensuring the ice surface is formed using salt-free water for optimal quality and athlete performance. The complex connects to the regional power grid for electricity needs, including refrigeration and lighting. Waste management adheres to Kazakhstan's environmental standards, minimizing impact on the surrounding ecosystem. Training aids at the facility cater directly to athletes' needs for preparation and recovery. Warming rooms, including a , provide heated spaces for post-training relaxation and temperature regulation in the cool mountain climate. Medical stations, such as an on-site clinic established during the 1970s build, offer immediate healthcare support, including treatment for injuries common in . Equipment storage is facilitated through dedicated rental points and secure areas under the stands, allowing athletes to store and maintain gear like skates with riveting stations nearby. The complex integrates with the Medeu-Shymbulak cable car system, offering an alternative elevated route for arrival.

Sports and Competitions

Major Events Hosted

Medeu has solidified its role as a premier venue for international competitions since the , leveraging its high-altitude conditions to host events that attract global athletes and spectators. The rink was renovated in preparation for the VII co-hosted by and in January and February 2011, which featured 991 athletes from 28 countries across 11 disciplines, though events took place at the Alau Ice Palace in . The following year, from January 29 to February 5, 2012, Medeu was the primary arena for the 32nd Division A, featuring 12 national teams in a series of matches that highlighted the sport's intensity on the elevated ice surface. Kazakhstan's national team competed prominently, securing overall, while the event underscored Medeu's suitability for with its expansive 10,500 square meter rink. The championship drew significant crowds, estimated in the tens of thousands, affirming the venue's appeal for high-profile tournaments. Throughout the , Medeu continued to host a range of domestic and international competitions, including the 2014 World University Speed Skating Championships and annual Kazakh national championships in and , which served as crucial training grounds for local athletes. These events, often drawing hundreds of participants, reinforced Medeu's status as the "forge of records" for Kazakh development. In the lead-up to the 2017 Winter Universiade in , the rink hosted preparatory activities and national selections for short track and disciplines, aligning with the broader excitement for the multi-sport event that featured over 1,700 athletes from 57 countries. The Universiade itself used Medeu for competitions. In recent years, Medeu has expanded beyond pure sports to cultural and diplomatic occasions, enhancing its international prominence. On March 29, 2025, Presidents of and of visited the high-mountain cluster, including Medeu, to discuss bilateral cooperation and tour the facility, which had welcomed around 460,000 visitors in the prior season. Following the closure of the outdoor rink after the 2024-2025 season for a major three-year renovation, no sports competitions have been held there as of November 2025.

Records and Achievements

Medeu has hosted numerous athletic achievements, particularly in , where its high altitude facilitated faster times by reducing air resistance and air density. Between the and , dozens of world records were set at the rink across various distances, contributing to its reputation as a premier venue for the sport. For instance, Soviet skater Galina Stepanskaya established two world records in the women's 3000 m event in 1976, recording 4:40.59 on and improving it to 4:31.00 a week later on March 23. The altitude of 1,691 meters is estimated to improve performance by approximately 2–3% compared to conditions, as lower air pressure allows skaters to expend less energy against drag. Overall, more than 120 international records have been broken at Medeu in and related ice disciplines, underscoring its historical significance in the sport. The venue served as a key training ground for Kazakh athletes, including Lyudmila Prokasheva, who earned Kazakhstan's first Olympic medal—a bronze in the women's 5000 m at the 1994 Olympics. In , Medeu has been the site of notable successes for the host nation, including Kazakhstan's at the , where the team defeated 16–2 in the final. The rink also hosted the , with claiming gold after a 5–4 victory over in the final, while secured bronze.

Tourism and Recreation

Visitor Attractions

Medeu attracts visitors with its stunning scenic features, nestled in the Medeu Valley at an elevation of 1,691 meters above , offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Ile-Alatau range. The nearby Medeu Dam, a key protection structure at 1,750 meters, serves as a landmark, shielding from avalanches and debris flows while providing elevated vantage points for breathtaking vistas of the valley and distant cityscape. These natural and engineered elements create an idyllic backdrop, drawing photographers and nature enthusiasts year-round to capture the dramatic alpine landscapes. Recreational options at Medeu emphasize accessible, non-competitive pursuits. As of 2025, the outdoor is closed for a two-year reconstruction expected to complete in 2027, but visitors can still enjoy walking trails and the iconic 842-step "health ladder" ascending to the , offering moderate hikes through pine-scented forests and meadows, ideal for fitness and exploration. Popular photo spots abound along the trails and crest, showcasing snow-capped peaks in winter and lush greenery in summer, enhancing Medeu's appeal as a serene retreat connected to its storied sports legacy. The site's seasonal draws vary distinctly: winter brings opportunities for under crisp air, while summer shifts to trails and light outdoor activities amid wildflower blooms and milder temperatures. Prior to the 2025 renovation, entry fees for skating were around 1,000 KZT for children and 1,500 KZT for adults; the complex itself remains free to enter. On-site cafes provide refreshments with Kazakh specialties such as and kazy, complemented by merchandise shops selling souvenirs like traditional felt items and local .

Access and Cultural Significance

Medeu is accessible year-round via road from , with the complex generally free to enter; as of 2025, the outdoor rink is closed for renovation until approximately 2027, but non-skating activities like and dam access continue. The cable car to nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort operates seasonally. As a symbol of national pride, Medeu played a prominent role in Almaty's unsuccessful bid to host the , where it was proposed as a central venue for due to its high-altitude advantages for record-breaking performances. The rink embodies Kazakhstan's sporting heritage from the Soviet era, fostering a sense of tied to the nation's mountainous landscapes and athletic achievements. Medeu contributes to by hosting local festive events, such as celebrations that draw crowds for cultural performances and sports demonstrations, and serves as a key training hub for youth programs in . These initiatives promote healthy lifestyles and patriotic spirit among young athletes from the region. Visitors should note Medeu's elevation of 1,691 meters above , where mild symptoms like or may occur for those unaccustomed to heights, though severe cases are rare at this moderate altitude; are available on-site for assistance. Nearby, the Shymbulak ski resort offers additional high-mountain access via cable car.

Future Developments

Planned 2025 Reconstruction

The city administration has planned a major reconstruction of the Medeu Skating Rink, involving a full closure since March 2025 through 2027 to allow for an (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) overhaul. The 2024-2025 season, ending in March 2025, marked the facility's last operation. The rink has been closed since then, with work commencing in fall 2025 and completion targeted for the fourth quarter of 2027 to enable reopening for the 2027-2028 winter season. This initiative addresses the rink's aging infrastructure, which dates back over 50 years to its 1972 opening, and aims to position the venue for potential future international events by aligning with contemporary standards. Preservation of the site's historical appearance remains a core priority amid these upgrades. The reconstruction's scope encompasses a complete renewal of utility systems, including upgrades to the equipment for enhanced energy efficiency, such as the integration of AI-based monitoring systems projected to reduce energy use by 25%. Additional engineering networks will be fully replaced to support reliable operations. Funded entirely by the local government, the project falls under the oversight of the Construction Department and city administration, with the budget estimated in the billions of pending finalization after state expert appraisal and environmental impact assessments.

Expected Modernization Outcomes

The reconstruction of the Medeu ice rink, scheduled for completion by late 2027, is anticipated to significantly enhance its facilities for a variety of , including and compliant with (ISU) standards, as well as expansions to accommodate ice speedway racing and . These upgrades will transform the venue into a versatile multi-sport arena capable of hosting ice shows, mass recreational events, and professional competitions, thereby restoring its status as a premier high-altitude facility. Additional features will include a new , restoration of the historic , redesign of a 4-star , an rehabilitation center, an eco-park with climate-adapted trees, two pedestrian bridges, heated seats, and gasification of the complex. Technological advancements will include a complete overhaul of the systems, particularly the refrigeration equipment, to ensure superior quality and suitable for international-level events. Integration of digital technologies is expected to improve visitor services, such as streamlined access and enhanced comfort features, while maintaining the rink's open-air design at 1,691 meters . Although specific sustainability measures like are not detailed in current plans, the project emphasizes preservation of the surrounding mountain ecosystem through targeted renovations. Post-reconstruction, Medeu is poised to serve as a dedicated high-altitude training center for athletes, potentially hosting world championships and other global competitions to elevate Kazakhstan's profile in . This modernization aligns with the rink's historical legacy as a record-breaking venue, aiming to boost and recreational appeal by attracting more international visitors and events. The enhanced capacity, supporting up to 8,100 spectators, will facilitate broader participation in both elite and public activities.

References

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  34. https://president.uz/en/lists/view/7987
  35. https://qazinform.com/news/kazakh-and-uzbek-leaders-survey-mountain-skiing-cluster-in-almaty-a8118e
  36. http://www.olympedia.org/athletes/82458
  37. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26390249/
  38. https://qazinform.com/news/30th-gold-of-asian-games-16-2-for-kazakhstan_a2348954
  39. https://www.uzdaily.uz/en/leaders-of-uzbekistan-and-kazakhstan-visit-medeu-ski-cluster/
  40. https://welcome.kz/en/info-cities/almaty/medeu-dam
  41. https://airial.travel/attractions/kazakhstan/almaty/medeu-ice-rink-XwgJabYu
  42. https://kazakhstan-tourism.com/medeu-skating-rink-almaty/
  43. https://audiala.com/en/kazakhstan/almaty/medeu
  44. https://caravanistan.com/kazakhstan/almaty/medeu/
  45. https://apnews.com/almaty-offers-traditional-winter-setting-in-2022-olympic-bid-b012d2c4d5e94377a2e8521f99374643
  46. https://www.si.com/olympics/2015/07/28/ap-oly-almaty-2022-bid
  47. https://www.kaznpu.kz/en/3940/news
  48. https://www.monkboughtlunch.com/medeo-almaty-ice-skating/
  49. https://en.qazmonitor.com/news/3046/legendary-medeu-ice-rink-set-for-major-upgrade
  50. https://senate.parlam.kz/en-US/news/details/13862
  51. https://qazinform.com/news/almaty-develops-medeu-reconstruction-concept-e4d5d1
  52. https://www.facebook.com/astanatimes/videos/%25EF%25B8%258F-kazakhstans-iconic-medeu-ice-rink-will-close-for-a-three-year-renovation-to-me/1134726008140513/
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