Apanayevskaya Mosque
A historic gem blending Tatar and Baroque styles, this 18th-century mosque symbolizes Kazan's resilience and revival.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Apanayevskaya Mosque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic gem blending Tatar and Baroque styles, this 18th-century mosque symbolizes Kazan's resilience and revival.
"A magnificent monument of Muslim architecture, a story of revival."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf.
Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a more peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Tatar Architecture
Kazan, Tatarstan
Experience a blend of medieval Tatar and regional Baroque styles, a testament to Kazan's rich architectural heritage.
Restored Minaret
Kazan, Tatarstan
Admire the ornate minaret, a symbol of the mosque's revival after being abolished during Soviet times.
Elegant Prayer Hall
Kazan, Tatarstan
Step into the beautifully restored prayer hall, featuring stucco ceilings and ceramic tiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf.
Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a more peaceful experience.
Respectful Photography
Be mindful of worshippers. Ask permission before taking close-up photos.
Explore Old Tatar Quarter
The mosque is in a historic area, perfect for a stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a headscarf.
Check Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a more peaceful experience.
Respectful Photography
Be mindful of worshippers. Ask permission before taking close-up photos.
Explore Old Tatar Quarter
The mosque is in a historic area, perfect for a stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Apanayevskaya Mosque for its historical significance and beautiful architecture, noting its importance as one of Kazan's oldest mosques. The restoration efforts are appreciated, offering a glimpse into Tatar and Baroque styles. Some find the surrounding area rich in history, though parking can be a challenge.
"Please enjoy this beautiful place!"
jisun park
"Mardzhani Mosque
Mardzhani Mosque
The oldest mosque in Kazan
Built with the personal permission of Empress Catherine II.
Construction took place between 1767 and 1770.
Built in 1770 during the reign of Catherine II, it is the first mosque built in the city of Kazan since the invasion of Ivan the Terrible.
Mardzhani Mosque, Kazan. After several decades of persecution of Muslims in the Russian Empire, it is the oldest surviving mosque in Tatarstan and was the only mosque in Kazan to survive closure during the Soviet period.
Built in the traditions of medieval Tatar architecture blended with the regional Baroque style, the mosque represents a typical Tatar mosque.
The mosque is located in the old Tatar quarter (İske Tatar Bistäse) of Kazan on the shores of Lake Kaban.
Mardzhani Mosque consists of two floors and two halls. The interior is designed in the St. Petersburg Baroque style.
In 1861, the merchant Z. Z. Osmanov added a staircase, and in 1863, he donated to expand the mihrab and open a new window. During this period, the mosque was named the Osmanov Mosque after his family.
In 1885, merchant Z. Gosmanov donated to renovate the minaret.
In 1887, merchants W. Gizatulin and M. Valesin added an ornate balcony to the minaret.
The mosque is currently named after the Tatar scholar Shihab al-Din Marjani, who served as its imam since 1850."
Thai Bin Thai
"A magnificent monument of Muslim architecture, one of two ancient mosques in Kazan. Nearby is the Tatarskaya Sloboda museum. I recommend it to everyone who wants to plunge headlong into the history and life of Kazan. In fact, this is the story of the revival of the city of Kazan. After all, after the capture of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible, the entire Tatar population was evicted to the shore of Lake Kanban. This is where the history of present-day Kazan began. The museum is designed simply amazing, with a lot of interactive corners. And the guide evokes the deepest respect for his ability to present material and knowledge of the history and modernity of the city. At the end of the excursion there will be tea with traditional national sweets."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Apanayevskaya Mosque is located in the Old Tatar Quarter of Kazan. You can reach it by public transport, such as buses or trams, heading towards the city center or Lake Kaban. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking in the Old Tatar Quarter can be limited. It's advisable to check for available parking zones or consider using public transport or ride-sharing services.
The area around Apanayevskaya Mosque is part of the historic Old Tatar Quarter, which is best explored on foot. This allows you to soak in the atmosphere and discover other nearby historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Apanayevskaya Mosque is generally free, as it is a place of worship. However, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The mosque is typically open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's recommended to check local listings or inquire beforehand, especially during religious holidays.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Apanayevskaya Mosque. It is a functioning mosque, and visitors are welcome to enter respectfully.
It is best to avoid visiting during actual prayer times to show respect to the worshippers. Visiting before or after prayer sessions is ideal.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Visitors should dress modestly. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs. Men should wear long pants and cover their shoulders.
Photography is usually permitted, but always be respectful of worshippers. Avoid flash photography and taking intrusive photos of people.
It is one of the oldest mosques in Kazan, built in the 18th century with permission from Catherine II, and represents a blend of Tatar and Baroque architectural styles.
Basic facilities like restrooms might be available. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving if you have specific needs.
Accessibility can vary. While some areas might be accessible, older buildings may have limitations. It's best to inquire directly about specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, especially the minaret and the mosque's facade, offers great photo opportunities. The interior prayer hall, with its decorative elements, is also picturesque.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides a beautiful glow on the mosque's architecture. Weekdays offer fewer distractions for your shots.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos during prayer times or of individuals without their consent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that children should be reminded to be quiet and respectful inside the prayer areas. The surrounding Old Tatar Quarter is also great for a family stroll, offering a glimpse into traditional Kazan life. Consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities might be limited.
🕌 Religious Visitors
It's advisable to check prayer times to avoid disrupting services. The mosque offers a serene environment for reflection and prayer, connecting you to the spiritual heritage of Kazan.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
During the Soviet era, the mosque faced closure and its minaret and vaults were destroyed. However, it was returned to believers in 1995 and has since undergone restoration. This journey from persecution to revival is a powerful narrative embedded in the mosque's very structure. Today, it serves as a testament to the resilience of the Muslim community in Tatarstan and is a key site for understanding the region's religious and architectural history.
Architecturally, the Apanayevskaya Mosque is a fascinating example of the blend between medieval Tatar traditions and the regional Baroque style prevalent during Catherine the Great's reign. This fusion is evident in its design, particularly in the prayer hall, which features decorative stucco on the ceiling and intricate ceramic tiles. The mosque's interior design is often described as being in the St. Petersburg Baroque style, showcasing a unique cultural synthesis.
Architectural Fusion and Revival
The restoration efforts have been crucial in preserving and revitalizing the mosque's original splendor. The ornate minaret, a key element of Islamic religious architecture, has been meticulously rebuilt, symbolizing the mosque's return to its spiritual purpose. Inside, the prayer hall is adorned with intricate stucco work on the ceilings and vibrant ceramic tiles, creating an atmosphere of reverence and beauty. These restored elements allow visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistic vision of its builders and restorers.
Visiting the Apanayevskaya Mosque offers a tangible connection to Kazan's past. It's not just a building but a living monument that tells a story of cultural exchange, religious perseverance, and architectural innovation. The mosque's presence in the Old Tatar Quarter further enhances its significance, placing it within a vibrant historical and cultural landscape.
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