10 Mosques In Russia: Stunning Architecture & Cultural Heritage

Historic mosques in Russia showcase Islamic architecture with domes, minarets, and mosaics.

Mosques in Russia reflect the country’s deep Islamic heritage, blending architectural grandeur with historical significance. Russia is home to over 8,000 mosques, with stunning examples in cities like Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg. From the towering Qol Sharif Mosque in Kazan to the elegant St. Petersburg Mosque, these religious landmarks display intricate Islamic artistry. Whether decorated with blue domes, golden minarets, or intricate mosaics, these holy mosques stand as cultural gems, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Top 10 Mosques In Russia

These famous mosques in Russia are architectural masterpieces that tell the story of Islam’s rich history in the region, from ancient times to the present.

1. Akhmad Kadyrov Mosque

Akhmad Kadyrov is among the largest mosques in Russia with intricate architecture.

Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons

The Akhmad Kadyrov Mosque, also known as “The Heart of Chechnya,” is one of the largest mosques in Russia and Europe. Located in Grozny, Chechnya, it’s named after the first president of the Republic of Chechnya, Akhmad Kadyrov. The mosque’s exterior is adorned with travertine marble, and the interior boasts white marble from Marmara Island. Its design follows the Ottoman style. This mosque in Russia can accommodate over 10,000 worshippers.

Location: Putin Ave, Grozny, Chechnya, Russia, 364061.
Nearby Attractions: Russian Islamic University, the Kunta-Haji, and the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Chechnya
Nearest Airport: Grozny Airport

2. Moscow Cathedral Mosque

Moscow Cathedral is among the mosques in Russia, blending tradition with modern design.

Photo: Gennady Grachev / Wikimedia Commons

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque is located on Olimpiysky Avenue. The original mosque was built in 1904, demolished in 2011, and rebuilt in 2015. It can accommodate over 10,000 worshipers and is considered the largest mosque in Russia and Europe. The mosque’s architecture symbolizes the friendship between the Russian and Tatar people. Its minarets are 72 meters tall, and the central dome reaches 46 meters.

Location: Pereulok Vypolzov, 7, Moscow, Russia, 129090
Nearby Attractions: Novodevichy Convent, The Armoury, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
Nearest Airport: Bykovo International Airport (MOW)

3. The Bulgar Mosque

The Bulgar is among the mosques in Russia that showcase Tatar's architectural magnificence.

Photo: kremlin.ru / Alexey Nikolsky / Wikimedia Commons

The Bulgar Mosque is a striking white-painted structure reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. Built to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Volga-Bulgaria’s Islamisation, it was inaugurated in 1993. This modern Muslim mosque features a rationalist design with elegant domes and minarets. It has separate entrances for men and women, with the main prayer hall on the second floor and a dedicated women’s area on the first. As a symbol of Islamic heritage among other mosques, the Bulgar Mosque stands as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark.

Location: Ulitsa Fedora Gladkova, 18, Cheboksary, Chuvashia Republic, Russia, 428003
Nearby Attractions: Museum of Bolgar Civilization, Museum of Bread, the Eastern Mausoleum
Nearest Airport: Kazan Airport (KZN)

4. Lala Tulpan Mosque

 Lala Tulpan is among the mosques in Russia, a striking twin-minaret with unique architecture.

Photo: Copter Ural / Shutterstock

Lala Tulpan, meaning “Tulip in Bloom,” is located in Ufa, the capital of Bashkortostan. Completed in 1998 after eight years of construction, it serves as a spiritual and educational centre for the region’s Muslim community. The mosque’s striking modernist design features twin minarets, each soaring 53 meters high, shaped like blooming tulips, symbolizing renewal and faith. With a capacity of up to 1,000 worshippers, it hosts daily prayers, religious gatherings, and cultural events.

Location: Ulitsa Komarova, 5, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia, 450044
Nearby Attractions: Ufa, Khakimov Cathedral Mosque
Nearest Airport: Ufa International Airport

5. Juma Mosque Of Derbent

Juma is among the oldest mosques in Russia reflecting deep Islamic history and heritage.

Photo: Elena Odareeva / Shutterstock

The Juma Mosque is Russia’s oldest mosque, dating back to 733-734 AD. Constructed by Iranians, it predates Derbent’s separation from Iran. This historical mosque in Russia was the city’s largest building at the time, measuring 68 meters by 28 meters, with a 17-meter-high dome. It has served both Sunni and Shi’ite Muslims. The mosque complex includes a madrasa and living quarters for clergy. The courtyard features ancient plane trees, recognized as natural monuments. The mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Location: 7, Ulitsa Magal, д. 10, Derbent, Republic of Dagestan, Russia, 368600
Nearby Attractions: The Naryn-Kala citadel, the Derbent Fortress, the Armenian Church
Nearest Airport: Makhachkala Airport

6. Central Mosque In Nizhnekamsk

The Nizhnekamsk Cathedral Mosque, featuring stunning domes and peaceful ambience.

Photo: Nik Panfil / Shutterstock

The Nizhnekamsk Cathedral Mosque, also known as “Dzhamig,” stands as a key example of a mosque in Russia, serving not only as a religious site but also as a cultural and educational complex. Opened in 1996 to mark Nizhnekamsk’s 30th anniversary, it was the first multi-purpose mosque in Tatarstan. Its architecture is futuristic, with minarets reaching 66 meters. The mosque can accommodate over 1,000 people in its prayer halls, the largest of which is 900 square meters.

Location: Prospekt Khimikov, 59, Nizhnekamsk, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia, 423570
Nearby Attractions: Nizhnekamsk Complex Museum, City Park Semya, Baklazhan AntiCafe
Nearest Airport: Begishevo Airport

7. Saint Petersburg Mosque

Saint Petersburg Mosque was inaugurated in 1913, an iconic blue-tiled mosque.

Photo: Geevee / Wikimedia Commons

The Saint Petersburg Mosque was inaugurated in 1913. Its architecture combines Islamic design with Russian influences. The mosque’s minarets are 49 meters high, and its dome reaches 39 meters. The building can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers. The mosque’s design was inspired by the Gur-Emir Mausoleum in Samarkand. The walls are made of grey granite, while the dome and minarets are covered in sky-blue mosaic ceramics.

Location: Kronverkskiy Prospekt, 7, St Petersburg, Russia, 197046
Nearby Attractions: State Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Mariinsky Theatre
Nearest Airport: Pulkovo Airport (LED)

8. Mukhtarov Mosque

A glimpse of Mukhtarov Mosque, an elegant Gothic-style mosque with Islamic architecture.

Photo: Alexxx1979 / Wikimedia Commons

The Mukhtarov Mosque, also known as Sunni Mosque, is one of the most recognizable mosques in Russia, specifically in Vladikavkaz. Constructed between 1900 and 1908 with funding from Azerbaijani millionaire Murtuza Mukhtarov, the mosque displays a fairy-tale-like architecture reminiscent of Cairo mosques from the 10th-12th centuries. The mosque’s design is attributed to Polish architect Iosif Ploshko. For a time, the mosque was defended by local Tatars against destruction by the Soviets.

Location: Ulitsa Kotsoyeva, 62, Vladikavkaz, North Ossetia–Alania Republic, Russia, 362008
Nearby Attractions: Fiagdon Monastery, Kurtat Gorge, Kosta Khetagurov Park
Nearest Airport: Vladikavkaz International Airport

9. Märcani Mosque

An image of Marcani Mosque located in Kazan features intricate architecture and history.

Photo: Vyacheslav Kirillin / Wikimedia Commons

The Märcani Mosque, located in Kazan, Tatarstan, dates back to 1770. Constructed with the permission of Catherine the Great, it was the first stone mosque built in Kazan after its conquest by Ivan the Terrible in 1552. It is the oldest active mosque in Tatarstan and the only one in Kazan that remained open during the Soviet era. Built-in the Tatar medieval architectural style with Baroque elements, it stands on the bank of Lake Qaban in the Old Tatar Quarter.

Location: Ulitsa Kayuma Nasyri, 17, Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia, 420021
Nearby Attractions: Qolsharif Mosque and Söyembikä Tower, and taking walking tours in Kazan
Nearest Airport: Kazan International Airport

10. Nord Kamal Mosque

 Nord Kamal Mosque is a distinctive contemporary mosque standing in Russia’s Arctic region.

Photo: INSAR / Wikimedia Commons

The Nord Kamal Mosque holds the distinction of being the world’s northernmost mosque, a recognition listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Its Tatar-style architecture includes a minaret and a central dome. Built in 1998 by Mukhtad Bekmeyev and designed by Josef Muire, it was named after Bekmeyev’s parents. The mosque’s design addresses the Far North’s harsh climate, with a square minaret base for wind resistance, making it one of the most unique mosques in Russia.

Location: Ulitsa 50 Let Oktyabrya, 2а, Norilsk, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia, 663305
Nearby Attractions: Oktyabrskaya Square, Vorota Goroda, Monument To V. I. Lenin
Nearest Airport: Alykel Airport

Mosques in Russia stand as testaments to the country’s rich Islamic heritage, offering a glimpse into the history, culture, and architecture of Muslim communities across the region. From the historic mosques of Kazan and St. Petersburg to the grand structures of Moscow and Bolgar, each mosque tells a unique story of faith and resilience. Plan a trip with TripXL and immerse yourself in Russia’s breathtaking Islamic landmarks!

Cover Photo: Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many mosques in Russia welcome non-Muslim visitors, but it’s advisable to check visitor hours and dress modestly.
In most mosques, photography is allowed, but it is recommended to ask for permission before taking pictures inside prayer areas.
Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, Dagestan, and Chechnya are the main Islamic regions in Russia, home to significant Muslim populations.
While no individual mosque is UNESCO-listed, the Kazan Kremlin, which houses the Qol Sharif Mosque, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The White Mosque in Bolgar is famous for its Taj Mahal-like white marble architecture and serene atmosphere.

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