The Hazret Sultan Mosque in Astana

The Hazret Sultan Mosque, Kazakhstan’s largest and the second-largest mosque in Central Asia, is an architectural marvel named after the revered 12th-century poet, philosopher, and Sufi sheikh, Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Yasawi, highly regarded in Islamic tradition as a saint, is also commemorated by a mausoleum built over his tomb in Turkestan. The name “Hazret Sultan” translates to “The Holy Sultan,” a title of great reverence attributed to Yasawi.

This iconic cultural landmark was inaugurated on July 6, 2012, and has since stood as one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive structures. The mosque spans a vast area of 11 hectares, with the total interior space covering nearly 18,000 square meters. It features not only a grand prayer hall beneath the central dome but also several smaller prayer rooms. Additionally, the mosque houses a wedding hall, an ablution room, a Quran reading room, classrooms for religious study, and a cloakroom. In terms of capacity, the mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at a time.

For visitors, there is a souvenir shop and a halal café offering affordable meals. Essential amenities such as restrooms are also available.

The Hazret Sultan Mosque is a stunning example of traditional Islamic architecture, with an air of lightness and elegance that gives it the appearance of an ethereal palace straight from the pages of a fairy tale. From a distance, the mosque seems to blend into the sky, with its white façade gleaming in the sunlight. As visitors draw nearer, they will notice intricate Kazakh patterns and delicate Arabic calligraphy adorning the walls in soft, gentle tones. The graceful arches, pilasters, and decorative bands contribute to the mosque’s fluid form, adding to its visual appeal.

The mosque’s central dome, which reaches 28.1 meters in diameter and rises 51 meters high, is the largest in Kazakhstan. Surrounding it are eight smaller domes with diameters of 10.45 and 7.6 meters, standing at heights of 33.46 and 25.25 meters, respectively. At each corner of the building, four intricately carved minarets rise to 77 meters.

Often referred to as the “Jewel of Astana,” the Hazret Sultan Mosque is a perfect complement to its surrounding landmarks, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (also known as Foster’s Pyramid), the National Museum, and nearby residential complexes. The mosque’s distinctive Eastern charm adds an enchanting touch to the city’s modern skyline. By night, with the lights illuminating its exterior, the mosque becomes even more spectacular.

The mosque’s interior is dominated by a white color scheme, accented with soft shades of blue and delicate touches of gold. Visitors will find intricate Kazakh motifs on the walls, as well as the names of 25 Islamic prophets inscribed in calligraphy. The serene and elegant design of the mosque creates a calming atmosphere that resonates with visitors, regardless of their religious background.

The main prayer hall, located beneath the grand central dome and supported by massive white columns, leaves a lasting impression. A colossal three-ton chandelier enhances the beauty of this sacred space.

Among the mosque’s most prized possessions are several remarkable artifacts. These include a silver Quran with 162 pages, crafted in Moscow at the Mint, and an original handwritten Quran from the 12th century, brought to Kazakhstan by Timur in the 14th century. This 40-kilogram Quran, now displayed under glass in the main hall, is one of the oldest surviving editions of the Holy Book in the world.

When visiting the Hazret Sultan Mosque, it is important to follow certain guidelines that apply to all Islamic holy sites. Both men and women should wear modest clothing, with shorts strictly prohibited. Women are required to cover their hair with a scarf. For those who may not have appropriate attire, the mosque provides cloaks at the entrance.

Before entering the mosque, visitors must remove their shoes and place them in designated lockers. During prayer times, women are not permitted to enter the main prayer hall under the central dome; instead, they may use the separate women’s prayer room on the second floor. Outside of prayer times, however, women are welcome to visit the main hall.

Tourist movement inside the mosque is restricted by a red ribbon, but photography is allowed.

The Hazret Sultan Mosque is open 24 hours a day, offering a peaceful space for quiet reflection at any time. Visitors from all faiths are welcome, and many report experiencing a profound sense of calm and tranquility inside the mosque.