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Kul Sharif Mosque

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Kul Sharif Mosque (Russia)

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The Kul Sharif Mosque, located in the heart of the Kazan Kremlin, is one of the most significant religious and architectural symbols of the Republic of Tatarstan. The modern structure was officially opened in 2005 to coincide with the millennium celebrations of the city of Kazan. It stands precisely on the site of a legendary historic mosque that was destroyed in 1552 by the troops of Ivan the Terrible during the capture of the city. It is named after Kul Sharif, a religious scholar and heroic defender of Kazan who died in that fateful battle. The imposing building captivates visitors with its dazzling white marble facades and spirited turquoise domes and minarets, the four main ones soaring to a height of 58 meters. Inside the mosque is a comprehensive museum dedicated to documenting the history and culture of Islam throughout the wider Volga-Ural region.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-14-13-5413172018124-4-12
Rain mm443745455271726054614850

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Kul Sharif Mosque in the Kazan Kremlin is open to visitors of all faiths. You can enter the main prayer hall and admire the intricate interior decoration.
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Typical hours
As an active mosque, it opens for daily prayers, especially Friday Jum'ah. Tourist visits are usually allowed outside prayer times, typically from 9 am to 6 pm.
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Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside, but respect prayer areas. Women may be asked to cover their heads in the prayer hall - a scarf is helpful.
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Time needed
Allow 30 to 45 minutes for a visit to the mosque interior. Spend additional time exploring the entire Kazan Kremlin with its other attractions.
Combine with
The mosque is located inside the Kazan Kremlin. Combine with the Annunciation Cathedral and the Suyumbike Tower, just a few steps away.
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Getting there
The Kazan Kremlin is in the center of Kazan, easily reached by bus or metro. The mosque is a short walk from the Kremlin gates.
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Insider tip
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.

Geography

Coordinates
55.79900, 49.10510

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Sights in the town Kul Sharif Mosque (7)

National Gallery of Art "Hazine"

Gallery in Kazan. Displays decorative art, painting, and graphics from Tatarstan, 19th, 21st centuries.

Hermitage-Kazan🏛 museum

Museum in Kazan. Branch of the Hermitage with rotating exhibitions.

🕒 Fr 11:00-20:00; Tu-Th,Sa-Su 10:00-18:00

World War II Museum Memorial🏛 museum

Museum in Kazan. Memorial to the Second World War.

Kazan Kremlin

Historic citadel in Tatarstan. UNESCO World Heritage site, government seat and museum complex.

Kul-Sharif mosque

Mosque in Qazan Kremlin, Qazan, Tatarstan. Main mosque of the republic.

Monument to the architects of the Kazan Kremlin

Monument in Kazan. Honors the builders of the Kazan Kremlin.

Konsistorskaya tower🗼 tower

Tower in Kazan. Part of the fortification system of the Kazan Kremlin.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Do women have to wear a headscarf?
Yes, headscarves are provided at the entrance.
Is admission free?
Yes, visiting the mosque is free.
How long does a visit take?
30 to 45 minutes is completely enough.
Can you photograph everywhere?
In prayer areas, please be respectful.
Is it illuminated at night?
Yes, the illumination is very impressive.
Kul Sharif Mosque: where is it located?
Kul Sharif Mosque is located in Russia.
Kul Sharif Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Gallery of Art "Hazine", Hermitage-Kazan, World War II Museum Memorial.
Kul Sharif Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kul Sharif Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Kul Sharif Mosque, located in the heart of the Kazan Kremlin, is one of the most significant religious and architectural symbols of the Republic of Tatarstan.
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