Kul-Sharif Mosque in Kazan

What to Expect and Is It Worth Visiting

This is the main mosque of Kazan and Tatarstan, and one of the symbols of the city. Her image can be seen on postcards, souvenirs, and, of course, live on the territory of The Kremlin. However, it is visible from many places in the city, especially at night, when it is very beautifully illuminated. It was built from 1996 to 2001. Of course, this is a modern structure, made according to all modern technologies and in a modern design. But still, it is connected with the past by a thin thread of history. It was recreated to replace the legendary minaret mosque of the Kazan Khanate, destroyed in 1552 by Ivan the Terrible.

Kul-Sharif Mosque, Kazan — Kul Sharif Mosque

First of all, it is a functioning religious object and the main one for all Muslims of Tatarstan, but at the same time it is one of the main architectural attractions of the city. You can go inside the mosque, inspect everything in detail and take pictures. Of course, you should be dressed appropriately, and behave accordingly. At the entrance, capes are offered free of charge, which will hide your bare shoulders and legs, shawls, and shoe covers should also be worn. Inside, on the ground floor there is something like a museum with a couple of exhibits telling about the mosque, and in the basement there is a museum of Islam (for a fee). Then you can climb to the upper floors, from where you can see the prayer hall from the balconies. Tourists are not allowed to enter the hall itself.

An incomprehensible structure next to a mosque with a roof similar to the roof of a mosque, although often photographed and looks very impressive, is not actually part of the mosque and is not a landmark. In fact, it's just a fire department stationed in the Kremlin.