Kurgan () is the largest city and the administrative center (capital city) of Kurgan Oblast. It is in the south of the Urals Federal District of Russia. Population: 309,285 (2021 Census),
Kurgan was named Tsaryovo Gorodishche until 1782.
History
The city was settled between 1659 and 1662 as Tsaryovo Gorodishche (, meaning Imperial Citadel). It was used as a fortress town against attacks from nomads. It was given city status by Catherine the Great in 1782 as Kurgan. Its present name came from a large kurgan (burial mound) close to the city.
Economy and military
Kurgan is on the Trans-Siberian Railway line, between Yekaterinburg and Omsk. It has two railway stations and the Kurgan Airport. It was home to the Kurgan West air base during the Cold War. It is also home to Russian Ilizarov Scientific Center for Restorative Traumatology and Orthopaedics, KAvZ autobus plant, and the machine building company Kurganmashzavod which produces the widely known BMP-1, BMP-2 and BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles.
Climate
Kurgan has a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification Dfb). It has cold winters and warm summers.
Gallery
International relations
Twin towns and sister cities
Kurgan is twinned with: