Qolsharif Mosque, Kazan (must see)
The Qolşärif mosque in Kazan Kremlin, was reputed to be - at the time of its construction - the largest mosque in Russia, and in Europe outside of Istanbul. Originally, the mosque was built in the Kazan Kremlin in the 16th century. It was named after Qolşärif who served there. Qolsharif died with his numerous students while defending Kazan from Russian forces in 1552. It is believed that the building featured minarets, both in the form of cupolas and tents. Its design was traditional for Volga Bulgaria, although elements of early Renaissance and Ottoman architecture could have been used as well.
Qolsharif is considered to be one of the most important symbols of Tatar aspirations. Nowadays the mosque predominantly serves as a Museum of Islam. At the same time during the major Muslim celebrations thousands of people gather there to pray. The Qolsharif complex was envisioned to be an important cornerstone of Kazan's architectural landscape. Besides the main mosque building it includes a library, publishing house and Imam's office.
Qolsharif is considered to be one of the most important symbols of Tatar aspirations. Nowadays the mosque predominantly serves as a Museum of Islam. At the same time during the major Muslim celebrations thousands of people gather there to pray. The Qolsharif complex was envisioned to be an important cornerstone of Kazan's architectural landscape. Besides the main mosque building it includes a library, publishing house and Imam's office.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kazan. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Qolsharif Mosque on Map
Sight Name: Qolsharif Mosque
Sight Location: Kazan, Russia (See walking tours in Kazan)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Kazan, Russia (See walking tours in Kazan)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Kazan, Russia
Create Your Own Walk in Kazan
Creating your own self-guided walk in Kazan is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Kazan's Architectural Jewels
Kazan’s architectural splendors make for an enchanting experience to visitors of this historic city. Its most significant landmarks are located in the center of the city, including the famous Qolsharif Mosque and Söyembikä Tower. Discover Kazan’s most popular architectural attractions in the following tour.
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.7 Km or 3.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.7 Km or 3.5 Miles
Kazan Introduction Walking Tour
Kazan’s diverse cultural heritage, heavily inspired by the creativity of such well-known figures as Gorky and Shalyapin, also has a significant influence on the surrounding regions. Take the following tour to explore the traditions of this highly developed cultural center of Russia.
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.1 Km or 3.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.1 Km or 3.2 Miles