The village of Zhalpaktal in the West Kazakhstan Region, located 300 kilometers from the regional center, has suddenly become one of the most talked-about places in the country. The reason is the grand unveiling of a 30-meter replica of the legendary Eiffel Tower, officially launched on May 25, 2026. Today, it is the tallest architectural replica of the Paris landmark in Kazakhstan.

A Tradition Built Over the Years

The most remarkable part of the story is that not a single tenge from the state budget was spent on the project. The tower was a gift to the native village from graduates of the local school’s class of 2006, who are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their graduation this year.

For Zhalpaktal, this is not a one-time initiative but a unique tradition that has continued for many years. For more than a decade, each “anniversary” graduating class has tried to leave behind something meaningful for the community. Thanks to the unity of former classmates, the village has gained landscaped parks, modern playgrounds, creative sculptures, a fountain, and even a full sports complex over the years. This year, the alumni decided to take inspiration from a world-famous landmark and give their fellow villagers a small piece of France. According to preliminary estimates, the initiative cost the alumni-philanthropists around 45 million tenge (approximately 100,000 US dollars).

From Harsh Criticism to Public Admiration

When the first videos of the metal framework under construction appeared on social media in mid-May 2026, the project faced heavy criticism. Many users argued that the remote village needed better roads, improved water supply systems, or renovated public facilities more than “European extravagance.”

However, the creators of the tower chose not to engage in debates and instead waited for the final result. Their patience paid off. On May 25, during the “Last Bell” school celebration, the tower was officially unveiled. Once the sophisticated nighttime illumination lit up the 30-meter structure, public opinion changed dramatically. Videos of the glowing tower in the middle of the steppe quickly went viral on TikTok and Instagram.

A New Tourist Attraction

Residents of western Kazakhstan now have their own iconic place for evening walks, dates, and photo sessions. The project proved that through community spirit and strong traditions, even a small and remote village can become a recognizable brand discussed across the entire country. Locals joke that now there is no need for a passport or visa to see the lights of Paris.