Moscow Central Mosque

The Moscow Central Mosque is a structure located in Moscow, the capital of Russia, and is regarded as one of the country’s most important Islamic places of worship. Built by the Russian Muslim Religious Administration, the mosque draws attention for its architectural features, interior decorations, and large capacity.

Construction Process and Opening

The construction of the Moscow Central Mosque lasted seven years and the mosque was opened for worship on 23 September 2015. The opening ceremony was attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The opening served as a significant symbol of cultural and religious cooperation between Russia and Türkiye.

Architectural Features

The total enclosed area of the Moscow Central Mosque is approximately 19,000 square metres, allowing up to 10,000 worshippers to pray simultaneously. The total construction area of the building is stated to be 13,000 square metres.

• Dome: The mosque’s dome is 46 metres high and 22 metres in diameter. The entire dome is covered with gold leaf applied over copper sheets.

• Minarets: The mosque has two large minarets, each standing 81 metres tall.

• Floors: The building consists of two basement levels, one main prayer level, and two gallery levels. Foyers for men and women are arranged in the basement levels. The ground floor and first gallery are designated for male worshippers, while the second gallery is reserved for women.

• Additional Facilities: The mosque complex includes a 150-seat conference hall and a muftiate office.

Interior Decoration and Art

The interior decoration of the mosque was undertaken by the Turkish Diyanet Foundation and the Directorate of Religious Affairs. The design and implementation process lasted approximately two years, during which over 100 artisans from Türkiye participated.

• Artistic Style: The interior embellishments were executed in accordance with the classical Ottoman artistic style of the 16th and 17th centuries.

• Calligraphy and Penwork: Calligraphy and ornamental designs were carried out under the leadership of calligrapher Hüseyin Kutlu and artist Semih İrteş.

• Mihrab: The mihrab was specially crafted from Marmara marble and decorated with carved relief inscriptions. It was produced in Türkiye and then installed in the mosque.

• Other Elements: All penwork from the prayer floor to the dome, the marble mihrab, minbar and kürsü, kündekârî wooden main entrance doors, gallery railings, large chandeliers, and a 6,000-square-metre carpet were all crafted by Turkish artisans.

For their contributions, Hüseyin Kutlu and Semih İrteş were awarded medals and certificates by the Muftiate of European Muslims in Russia.

Usage and Social Significance

The Moscow Central Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a religious and cultural centre for the Muslim community in Moscow. During Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, thousands of Muslims fill the mosque, with overflow crowds forming lines in the streets. During holiday prayers, the area around the mosque is designated for worship and security measures are implemented. Additionally, messages from the President and Prime Minister of Russia are read inside the mosque, and the prayers are broadcast live on state television.