Nur-Astana Mosque: 10 Things to Do in Astana, Kazakhstan
Located in the heart of Kazakhstan’s capital city of Astana, the Nur-Astana Mosque is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 2005, the mosque is the largest in Central Asia and is a symbol of the nation’s commitment to religious freedom and tolerance. With its stunning architecture, exquisite interior, and breathtaking views of the city, the Nur-Astana Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting Astana. Here are 10 things to do at the Nur-Astana Mosque:
1. Explore the Exterior: The Nur-Astana Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, with its white marble walls and gold-tipped minarets. The mosque is surrounded by a large park with plenty of space to explore and take in the beautiful views of the city.
2. Visit the Interior: The interior of the Nur-Astana Mosque is just as impressive as its exterior. The mosque features a large prayer hall with intricate designs and a stunning chandelier that hangs from the ceiling. The mosque also houses a library, a museum, and a cafe.
3. Attend a Prayer Service: The Nur-Astana Mosque is open to visitors of all faiths, and visitors are welcome to attend a prayer service. The services are conducted in both Arabic and Russian, and visitors are encouraged to observe the prayer rituals out of respect.
4. Take a Tour: The Nur-Astana Mosque offers guided tours of the mosque and its grounds. The tours are conducted in both English and Russian, and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and culture of the mosque.
5. Enjoy a Meal at the Cafe: The Nur-Astana Mosque houses a cafe that serves traditional Kazakh and Central Asian cuisine. The cafe is open to visitors of all faiths, and is a great place to enjoy a meal or a cup of tea.
6. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: The Nur-Astana Mosque has a souvenir shop that sells traditional Kazakh items such as carpets, pottery, and jewelry. The souvenir shop is a great place to pick up a unique memento of your visit to the mosque.
7. Attend a Lecture: The Nur-Astana Mosque hosts lectures and seminars on a variety of topics, including Islamic history, culture, and philosophy. The lectures are conducted in both English and Russian, and are open to visitors of all faiths.
8. Attend a Concert: The Nur-Astana Mosque is home to a number of musical concerts and performances throughout the year. The concerts feature traditional Kazakh and Central Asian music, and are open to visitors of all faiths.
9. Visit the Library: The Nur-Astana Mosque houses a library with a wide selection of books on Islamic history, culture, and philosophy. The library is open to visitors of all faiths, and is a great place to learn more about the Islamic faith.
10. Attend a Festival: The Nur-Astana Mosque hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the annual Astana International Festival. The festival features traditional Kazakh music, dance, and food, and is a great way to experience the culture of Kazakhstan.
Whether you’re looking to explore the stunning architecture of the Nur-Astana Mosque, attend a prayer service, or take part in one of the many festivals, there is something for everyone at the Nur-Astana Mosque. With its unique blend of Islamic and Central Asian culture, the Nur-Astana Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting Astana.