Abu Nasyr al-Farabi Mosque
The Abu Nasyr al-Farabi Mosque was constructed in 2005, marking it as the first mosque built on the left bank of the Esil River in the new center of Astana. At that time, it was the second-largest mosque in Central Asia. Initially called Nur Astana, it was renamed in 2021 in honor of Abu Nasyr al-Farabi, a renowned philosopher, thinker, and scientist.
The Emir of Qatar funded the mosque's construction with a generous donation of approximately $7 million. The mosque's snow-white exterior is a striking contrast to the towering skyscrapers surrounding it, built in a sophisticated oriental style with a golden dome and a spacious courtyard featuring a grand fountain.
The main dome of the mosque stands at an impressive height of 40 meters, while four minarets soar to 63 meters. The number 40 represents the age at which Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah, while 63 symbolizes the total number of years he spent on earth. The main dome is upheld by eight pillars engraved with Surahs from the Quran.
The large hall of the mosque has a capacity of 5,000 people, with a dedicated balcony on the second floor for female worshippers, accommodating up to two thousand people. A unique feature of the mosque is the fragment of Kiswah it houses, a piece of cloth that covers the Kaaba in Mecca, which Nursultan Nazarbayev gifted to the mosque. The mosque also keeps the Holy Quran from the printing house of the King of Saudi Arabia.
How to get there?
Address: 36 Kabanbay Batyr Ave.
The Abu Nasyr al-Farabi Mosque is conveniently located in the bustling administrative center of Astana. It can be reached by buses #10, 12, 29, 29A, 30, 32, 37, 40, 46, 51, 56, 301, 302, 303, 308, and 309.
Other tourist attractions near the mosque:
- Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center
- Asia Park Shopping Mall
- Abu Dhabi Plaza
- Nurzhol Boulevard
- Korme Exhibition Center
- Keruen Shopping Mall
- Temir Zholy Tower
- Round Square
- Emerald Towers
- Baiterek Monument
- Kazmedia Center
- Park of Lovers
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