Semey is an ancient city in Kazakhstan, first founded as a Russian fort in 1718. It’s located on the Irtysh River, and is the administrative center of Semey Province. The city has a population of over 420,000 and is a major transportation hub, with railways and highways connecting it to all parts of the country. Semey is also an important cultural center, with a large university and a number of theaters. The city is home to a large number of historical monuments, including the Semey Fort, the I. M. Gubkin Russian Oil and Gas Institute, and the Semey State Museum. The city is also known for its breweries and for its production of tobacco.