Nur-Astana Mosque
Nur-Sultan
The Nur-Astana Mosque, also known as the Astana Grand Mosque, is located in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, and stands as the largest mosque in Central Asia and the second largest outside the Middle East. Its main dome, with a height of nearly 83.2 meters and a diameter of 62 meters, is the largest dome of its kind worldwide. The mosque is characterized by four towering minarets, each 130 meters tall, symbolizing the five pillars of Islam. Visitors can access one of the minarets via an elevator to enjoy panoramic views of the city. The entrance boasts one of the tallest wooden doors globally, crafted from iroko wood and adorned with traditional Kazakh patterns. Inside, the mosque features 12-meter-high interior doors and stained glass windows with colorful ornaments. The walls and dome interior are richly decorated with Quranic verses and prayers, with Arabic calligraphy by Kazakh master Asylbek Baizakuly. A notable feature is the mosaic wall facing the qibla, inscribed with the 99 names of Allah, illuminated with golden light and composed of 25 million colored glass pieces. The prayer halls are covered with the world's largest handmade Kazakh ornamental carpet, covering over 15,525 square meters. This mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and architectural landmark symbolizing Kazakhstan's Islamic heritage.
Plan your trip to Kazakhstan with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Nur-Astana Mosque is during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Visitors can access one of the minarets by elevator for city views, so consider purchasing tickets or checking opening hours in advance. Modest dress is required, and respectful behavior is expected inside the mosque. Discounts or group visit arrangements might be available through official channels, so inquire ahead if planning a group tour.
Interesting facts
- •The main dome of Nur-Astana Mosque is the largest dome of its kind in the world, measuring nearly 83.2 meters in height and 62 meters in diameter.
- •The mosque's four minarets are each 130 meters tall and divided into five parts symbolizing the five pillars of Islam.
- •The entrance door is one of the tallest wooden doors globally, standing 12.4 meters tall and weighing 1.5 tons, made from iroko wood from tropical Africa.
- •The mosaic wall facing the qibla is 100 meters long and 22.4 meters high, made from 25 million colored glass pieces, inscribed with the 99 names of Allah.
- •The carpet covering the prayer halls is the largest handmade carpet in the world, spanning 15,525 square meters and featuring Kazakh ornamental designs.
History
The Nur-Astana Mosque was constructed as a symbol of Kazakhstan's Islamic identity and modern architectural achievement.
Since its completion, it has become the largest mosque in Central Asia and one of the largest worldwide.
The mosque's design incorporates traditional Islamic symbolism, such as the five-part minarets representing the five pillars of Islam.
Over time, it has evolved into a major religious, cultural, and tourist landmark in Nur-Sultan, reflecting the country's heritage and contemporary aspirations.
Place Guide
Main Dome
The mosque's central dome is the largest of its kind worldwide, soaring nearly 83.2 meters tall with a diameter of 62 meters, symbolizing the grandeur of Islamic architecture.
Minarets
Four minarets each stand 130 meters tall, segmented into five parts representing the five pillars of Islam. One minaret is accessible to visitors via elevator, offering panoramic city views.
Entrance Door
One of the tallest wooden doors globally at 12.4 meters high, weighing 1.5 tons, crafted from iroko wood and decorated with traditional Kazakh patterns.
Interior Decorations
The interior features 12-meter high doors and stained glass windows with colorful ornaments. Walls and dome are adorned with Quranic verses and prayers, with Arabic calligraphy by Kazakh master Asylbek Baizakuly.
Qibla Mosaic Wall
A 100-meter long and 22.4-meter high mosaic wall inscribed with the 99 names of Allah, illuminated with golden light, composed of 25 million colored glass pieces.
Kazakh Ornamental Carpet
The prayer halls are covered with the world's largest handmade carpet, spanning 15,525 square meters and featuring traditional Kazakh designs.
Contact
Phone: 8 (7172) 44 61 65
