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Moscow Cathedral Mosque

The History

The architecture and interior of the mosque

The museum of Islam

Visitor Tips

• The mosque can be easily accessed via the metro. Just take Koltsevaya line 5 (brown) and stop at Prospekt Mira station and walk towards the stadium. It’ll take you about 5 -7 min to walk.
• Men and women use separate doors to enter. You’ll need to take off your shoes. Women have to put on a robe with a hood that is offered for free. You'll leave your coats and shoes in a cloakroom.
• You may visit the mosque on your own or book a tour. We think that a tour of the Moscow cathedral Moscow will be interesting not only for Muslims but for any visitor of Moscow. The visit will give you a chance to explore amazing interiors and learn the history of Islamic culture in Russia. We may include the visit in any of your Moscow trips .
• If you book a tour the guide can accompany you on a roof-top panoramic platform which gives you a chance to see the building from a different perspective.
• You may find several halal cafes in the area.

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Moscow Cathedral Mosque

The original building of Moscow’s main mosque dates back to 1904, but it was demolished in 2011 and rebuilt from scratch. Unlike many religious institutions, the Cathedral Mosque never closed during Soviet times, and for years it was the only active mosque in the city. The six-storey Byzantine-style building has a lavish gold-leaf-covered dome, while the interior walls are adorned with calligraphic verses from the Quran.

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Moscow Vacation Packages

Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

Moscow Tour Highlights

Explore the capital of the largest country in the world, Russia.

Learn about the most visited sights in Moscow that are worth adding to your Russian itinerary. Create a fantastic tour to Moscow with a destination, choosing your wished activities.

• Moscow walking tour
• The Red Square
• St Basil's Cathedral
• Moscow Subway ride
• Tretyakov Gallery
• The Red Square in Moscow
• The Bolshoi Theater
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Moscow's Kremlin exploration
• 'Seven Sisters' Skyscrapers

Tips for Moscow Travel

Take a look at the good-to-know tips before visiting Moscow and have a fantastic time in the capital.

What to pack

Make sure to check the weather prognosis before your trip and pack accordingly.

When to travel

Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

We suggest to always have some cash with you. You will need Rubles (RUB) for Russia.

How much to tip

Tipping is not required in Russia, but it's considered good etiquette, tip 10%-15% of your bill.

The average summer temperature is approx 18°C (64°F), and winter is around -6°C (22°F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Moscow are caviar, Krasnaya Moska perfume.

Best Moscow Sights

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills.

See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

Enjoy masterpieces of Russian opera and ballet in Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Theater.

Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

The famous GUM is a large department store in the Kitai-gorod part of Moscow facing Red Square.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is Moscow’s most famous artistic work of architecture set in the romantic Red Square.

History and luxury is revealed inside the Kremlin as the Armoury Chamber displays treasures like Faberge Eggs.

Moscow Metro is like a whole underground city that holds the world's largest collection of Stalinist Art.

The symbol of Moscow and entire Russia, the Kremlin is often described as the 8th Wonder of the World.

I am very satisfied.

I have been using the Firebirds (Travel All Russia) services for a while. I am very satisfied.

WOW. From the choice of hotels to...

WOW. From the choice of hotels, an itinerary that ran to plan, the amazing Guides and drivers, and of course the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for entry to museums, churches, and palaces.  I would gladly recommend using Firebird Tours (Travel All Russia) to anyone.

THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

I must say from the day I started to book my tip till the day I got home I had one GREAT trip and experience I always felt safe and cared for help was seconds away not that I needed any I will defiantly highly recommend your company to any traveler to Russia WELL DONE to the Whole team THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

We enjoyed the whole trip a lot

Overall we enjoyed the whole trip a lot. Moscow is beautiful and clean. Thank you very much for your patience and excellent organization of this tour. Everything ran very smoothly and according to schedule. The guides met us on time at hotels or at our train carriage on arrival. They all spoke good English, had a good local knowledge and were very kind and helpful.

The tour lived up to all expectations

I’m most pleased with Travel All Russia in arranging our ‘Volga Dream’ Russia tour, I would recommend using your services again as every aspect of our tour went off without a hitch. The communication between our tour representative was excellent as we required additional days on both ends of our tour. The visa process and the logistics were flawlessly implemented.

We had a great time in Moscow!

Everything was perfect and we are very satisfied with services and accommodations.

Loved my time in Russia

The trip was great. Especially want to mention the guides I had on the extra days were exceptional. Both guides and drivers worked out well. Thanks again for all your help and attention. Loved my time in Russia, and still haven’t stopped talking about it.

Exploring Magnificent Russian Capitals, June 2017

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Exploring Vibrant Moscow, June 2017

The experience was great!!! We had an excellent guide. The hotel was fabulous.

Thank you for your help !!! was an unforgettable trip.

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Halal tour in Moscow: metro tour, visiting Grand Mosque and authentic halal meal provided by CheapRussia Tours

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A Muslim-friendly guide to Moscow, Russia

In Travel Guide by Dina Dzhunskalieva May 2, 2020

A Muslim-friendly guide to Moscow

Moscow, the capital of Russia and home to an estimated 12 million people, may not be the obvious Muslim-friendly destination. However, the Muslim community in Russia grows year by year – various estimates place the current Muslim population in Russia at between 14 million and 20 million people. With this growth in the local Muslim population, the Russian capital is becoming increasingly Muslim-friendly. The proof? A rising number of Muslim-friendly cafes and restaurants, prayer facilities and festive Muslim events. 

Of course, no visit to Moscow is complete without a visit to the Kremlin, Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. But how Muslim-friendly is Russia’s capital?

Here’s your Muslim-friendly guide to visiting this incredible city by local moskvichka , Dina Dzhunskalieva. 

Muslim-friendly experiences in Moscow

1. pray in one of the biggest mosques in europe.

The streets surrounding Moscow Cathedral Mosque fill with worshippers during Eid, despite the mosque’s 10 000 person capacity. Photo: AFP

The origins of Moscow Cathedral Mosque can be traced to 1904, but it was demolished and completely reconstructed in 2015. During the period of the Soviet Union, Moscow Cathedral Mosque was the only one in the city that remained open for Muslims to worship in. In September 2015 President Putin himself presided over the mosque’s inauguration ceremony, together with President Erdogan (Turkey) and President Mahmoud Abbas (Palestinian Authority). The impressive architecture features 72m-high minarets and a central dome decorated with no less than 12 kg of gold leaf, which looks especially beautiful on a sunny day, shining in all of its glory.  The new mosque can hold an estimated 10 000 worshippers, which is much needed in Moscow. During major celebrations such as Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha, it’s estimated that 100 000 Muslims gather outside the central mosque alone, filling the streets with worshippers offerring their Eid prayers.

Top Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the small museum at the mosque, which has a number of historical artefacts from the Muslim world!

2. Try delicious authentic cuisine from Central Asia and the Caucasus at halal eateries

Moscow is a hub for ethnicities from all over Russia and post-Soviet republics. Every ethnicity has its national cuisine and with seven of Russia’s 22 republics being Muslim-majority populations, there is a sumptuous variety of halal local food on offer.

There are more and more halal cafes and restaurants opening in Moscow, and here are my personal top 3 recommendations that any foodie should not miss: 

• “Chaihona Aiva”

An Uzbek restaurant with a great range of the main Central Asian dishes: plov, manty, samsa and more. Reasonable prices make this place even more attractive for tourists, as for locals. 

Beautiful interiors compliment the hearty Uzbek cuisine at Chaihona Aiva. Photo: Chaihona Aiva/TripAdvisor

Great spot if you want to try Caucasus cuisine without going to the Caucasus region itself. Home style chudu (crispy puff pastry with various fillings), Dagestani hinkal (dough-like dish served with garlic sauce and meat) and many more to enjoy. 

Crispy chudu parcels from Zhi Est. Photo: Zhi Est/TripAdvisor

Chinese cuisine, mainly represented by lamian – Lanzhou-style noodles. Tastes very close to Turkic laghman and very cheap, although the portions are huge. Also try the steamed bun and selection of various teas. 

Lanzhou-style noodles and lagman. Photo: Lanzhou/TripAdvisor

2. Experience Ramadan in a tent

Ramadan tents have been a feature of Ramadan in Moscow since at least 2003. Photo: Caucasian Knot

The Ramadan tent in Moscow offers iftar dinners and festive Ramadan activities for locals and Muslims who live in the city. On average, it hosts more than 500 guests every night. The budget organization of Iftars and entertainment programme come from Muslims themselves, first of all from the republics and communities which hold thematic evenings during Ramadan.

3. Listen to the most beautiful Quran recitation

The Moscow international Quran competition has taken place annually since 2000. Photo: VoiceofglobalUmmah.blogspot

Every year in Moscow, competitors from around the world gather to take part in an annual international Qur’an recitation competition. This year is the 20th Moscow Quran Reciting Competition, which was scheduled for 19th of April but has been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This competition sees representatives from a number of Muslim states including Iran, Turkey, Malaysia and Qatar as well as the Muslim-majority republics of Tatarstan, Dagestan and other regions.

Bookmark this travel guide so you can access it whenever a trip to Moscow is on the cards. In the meantime, check out more travel guides and tips over on our Inspiration Wall . 

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Moscow Central Mosque

The  Moscow Central Mosque also known as(  Moscow Cathedral Mosque ) today impresses with its magnificence. Its history starts with the year 1904. That's when the first cathedral mosque was built in Moscow. A Moscow architect Nikolay Zhukov developed the project, and the famous Tatar merchant Salih Erzin became the patron. In the era of the Soviet Union, it was the only mosque in the city, which was not closed and held worship services. However, in the year 2005 it was decided to renovate, and in 2011 construction began on the new mosque, designed by architects Ilias Tažieva and Alexei Kolenteeva .

Description

In the architectural ensemble of the new Cathedral Mosque in Moscow you will notice several historical and cultural throwbacks. So, for example, the two main minarets are taller than 70 m (230 ft.) and very similar in shape to the famous leaning tower of the Kazan Kremlin (Söyembikä) and to the Spasskuû Tower of the Moscow Kremlin.

This idea is a symbol of unity and friendship of the Russian and Tatar peoples. A huge 46-metre golden dome mosque, on whose cover together with minarets took about 12 tons of gold leaf, which echoes the way Orthodox "golden-domed Moscow". Do not forget to pay tribute to the architects and the original appearance of the mosques: old walls have been collected anew, they successfully fit in with new interior, while retaining the old look, and on top of one of the minarets was placed a Crescent, which adorned the old building.

The new mosque has traits of a Byzantine style, this 6-storey building is crowned with a few different sizes of minarets, domes and towers. Compared to the original building, the area of the new mosque has almost 20 times as much space and amounted to 18900 sq. m. Prayer rooms for men and women now accommodate about 10,000 people.

 In addition, there are rooms in the mosque, where the ritual ablution, a large hall for imams, traditional ceremonies: five times daily, Friday, and holiday prayers, Nikah, janaza (funeral prayer) and the naming of children.

 Numerous patterns and decorative elements meet the traditions of Muslim architecture, colors used in classic designs for Islam such as emerald, green, blue and white. On the inside of the dome, the walls and ceiling of the mosque are paintings representing the sacred verses from the Koran, made by Turkish masters.

More than 320 fixtures placed on the walls and ceiling are used to illuminate the mosques. Most of them repeat the shape of the main dome of the mosque on a different scale. The Central chandelier in the main hall is a giant lamp 8 m tall and weighs 1.5 tons. On its creation worked fifty Turkish masters over three months.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moscow_Cathedral_Mosque

https://voschod.ru/en/recreations/moscow-cathedral-mosque

Russia, Moscow

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18900 sq. m

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Moscow - St. Petersburg

The classical tour of Moscow and Saint Petersburg is designed for tourists, who just start their acquaintance with Russia and its two treasures — the biggest cities, Moscow, the capital, and Saint Petersburg, the cultural center and the cradle of architectural and gems of tsar époque. The classical program usually takes from 5 to 8 days and can be adapted in intensity depending on how much free time you would like to have in addition to excursions.

day 1 Welcome to Russia!

Our driver meets you at the airport (or railway station). Watch out for your name on a signboard the driver will hold. Don’t worry if your flight is coming late: we are monitoring the actual schedule of each customer and you can be sure we are aware of the delays, and your driver is waiting for you patiently.

After you arrive at your hotel, we can either give you time to have a rest and deal with jet-lag or take you to your first tour where you will see Moscow in its night-lighted beauty.

day 2 Panoramic tour of Moscow and the Kremlin

Together with the guide, who is most likely to become a great company for you for the next couple of days, and the driver, responsible for your comfortable transportation during the tour, you are going to see Moscow, learn about its history and make photo-stops. You will see the beautiful Red Square, the landmark of Moscow and Russia; watch the picturesque panorama from the Sparrow Hills; enjoy the view of the magnificent MSU building, walk down the elegant Nikolskaya street and shop around GUM — posh and exquisite oldest shopping center of Moscow.

Our guide will show you the best places to have lunch. Tell them about your preference and you will be taken to a sweet cosy cafeteria or a high-end restaurant. We do not normally include meal prices in the individual package so that you could have a wider choice of places and meals that you can pay for on the spot.

After lunch, get ready to immerse into the earliest Russian history. The Moscow Kremlin tour is about heritage, art, culture, and religion — and, of course, the pleasure of your eyes. Our packages include the visit of the territory of Kremlin and two cathedrals of three. You can also choose the extras: a visit to the Diamond Fund, Armory, or Saint Basil’s Cathedral, located on the Red Square just a few minutes walk.

Usually, our second day ends after the Kremlin tour and we take you back to your hotel.

day 3 Get closer to Russian art: The Tretyakov Gallery

Be ready to wake up early today if you book the optional tour to Moscow metro and the Old Arbat: Why should you choose it? The essential part of the travel is to feel the vibe of the life of locals and traveling by metro followed by the stroll down the favorite pedestrian street of the Muscovites. This is a fully walking tour, so make sure you can walk on long distances; it will take approximately three hours. The metro tour will start at the station closest to your accommodation place — near the station or at your hotel if it is located within walking distance from a station. You will see the impressive stations designed like the palaces: Ploschad Revolutsii, Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Teatralnaya, and the others. This tour is only available in the morning according to the excursion committee of the metro regulations, so don’t oversleep! The next point is the beautiful pedestrian street Old Arbat. Here you can have lunch, take beautiful pictures and do some shopping, or just walk down the busy street, so loved by youth and tourists.

The main tour of the day is about art and you will definitely enjoy it: there is hardly a person who cannot find a catching thing for them in the famous Tretyakov Gallery, the greatest collection of Russian fine art. There you will see the most significant pieces of art, known by every Russian from a schooler to an expert. The classic tour includes the visit to the division of classical art, but if you also want to get acquainted with modern style paintings, don’t forget to book an extra tour to another building of the Tretyakov Gallery.

day 4 Open the window to Europe: transfer to St Petersburg

Have a hearty breakfast before you start: today you are going to travel 750 kilometers to visit another brilliant Russian city. We offer you to try the unique experience with Russian Railways and take an overnight brand train with sleeping berths; you can choose between 4-berths and 2-berths compartments; hot meals and bed linen for your comfortable overnight journey are included!

Before the train, you have plenty of time, so why not take another extra tour of Pushkin museum, with its enormous collection of sculptures, paintings, art, and other items of different epochs.

In the afternoon, you are collected from the hotel and dropped off at the railway station. During your trip between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, you are not having a guide, but the friendly staff will help you with any questions.

day 5 Arrival to Saint Petersburg and the city tour

In the early morning, your train arrives at the main railway station of Saint Petersburg. Your guide is already here, waiting for you with a signboard. People in the city are in a hurry to their jobs and you can take your time, enjoying the views of this true tzar city. The city tour, organized upon arrival before you check it, will show you the main square of the city — Palace square, Vasilievsky island with its rostral columns, and aesthetical architectural monuments of the 18th century. Everyone will find enjoyment during the tour: history lovers will learn more about the Russian culture, art enthusiasts — find out the unique architectural objects, and the Instagram addicts will definitely enrich their accounts with the new stunning pictures with city views.

After the tour, you check-in to your hotel and have spare time for the rest of the day.

day 6 World-famous museum: Visit the Hermitage

Get ready to walk a lot today! It’s time to explore the gem of Saint Petersburg and its main lair of the world art objects: the Hermitage. The guided tour allows you to skip the enormous lines and see as much as possible in a three hours tour. It would take many years to explore each item of the Hermitage, so the tour is focused on the most famous paintings and sculptures: Rembrandt’s Danaya, Gainsborough’s Woman in Blue, Matisse’s Dance, The Peacock Clock, and the others.

day 7 Tour of Pushkin: Catherine Palace and Park

This is the most desired part of the tour for many visitors: today you have an opportunity to visit the legendary Amber room in the Catherine Palace, located 25 km away from Saint Petersburg. With the help of the driver, your guide takes you to the town of Pushkin and shows the impressive summer residence of Russian emperors. The Amber Room is a gem: it is a chamber, fully decorated with amber and gold; it is the unexceptionable reconstruction of the missed genuine Amber room. If there is no chance to get in the Catherine Palace (sometimes there are too many requests), it is replaced with the amber workshop, where you have a chance to work on your own piece of amber and have a glass of sparkling champagne as the cherry on a pie. In addition, the trip includes walking around Catherine park, a piece of landscape design art.

day 8 Goodbye Russia! Departure transfer

Today the journey comes to its end; if you want to have the most of your last day, book the tour of Peterhof, if time allows. It is usually called a Russian Versaille for its fountains layout and complex of sculptures; the Great Palace visit is also included in the tour. The whole assembly holds the spirit of the Tsars epoque and is a great place for walking, taking pictures, and learning more about the emperors' time of Russia and Saint Petersburg.

After the tour, you are delivered directly to the airport for your return flight, or to the hotel — if you need a transfer later.

• Day 1: Welcome to Russia!
• Day 2: Panoramic tour of Moscow and the Kremlin
• Day 3: Get closer to Russian art: The Tretyakov Gallery
• Day 4: Open the window to Europe: transfer to St Petersburg
• Day 5: Arrival to Saint Petersburg and the city tour
• Day 6: World-famous museum: Visit the Hermitage
• Day 7: Tour of Pushkin: Catherine Palace and Park
• Day 8: Goodbye Russia! Departure transfer

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Kremlin Grounds and Cathedrals

Welcome to Moscow and one of the most spectacular live guided tours of Kremlin grounds and cathedrals. During this sightseeing tour, you will have a chance to visit Moscow's most famous landmarks and immerse yourself into the atmosphere of glorious past as you are strolling among the stunning buildings designed and raised centuries ago. 

• Duration: 1-1,5 hours
• Admission fee: 700 RUB per person, tickets for visitors under 16 are free of charge.
• Photography: Amateur photography and video filming allowed outdoors only, in the museums–cathedrals are prohibited.

During the personal tour of the grounds and cathedrals of Moscow Kremlin, you will discover lots of interesting cultural facts and fascinating historical details about the Moscow Kremlin with one of the best expert guides.

This tour offers you a real insight into the most astonishing world heritage sites, including Cathedral Square with its elaborately ornamented churches and gorgeous sprawling palaces. You are bound to experience unforgettable emotions from visiting the cathedrals and then strolling through Tainitsky Garden. You will be delighted to see President's Helipad as well as other attractions, such Tsar Cannon and the Tsar Bell, the Residence of the President of Russia, the Arsenal, and the State Kremlin building. If we are lucky, we will make our time to attend Patriarchy Palace, along with the small museum of the 17th century where you will see a splendid collection of silverware. Plus, you will also see beautifully carved wooden icons of 16-17th centuries in the church of Deposition of Our Lady of the Robe.

During our walking tour, you will be able to capture the images of all the architectural masterpieces you will come upon; however, you should keep in mind that taking photographs and videotaping is not allowed inside the museum churches.

But before you contemplate the beauty of Moscow Kremlin with your own eyes, let's make a small introduction to what you are going to see there.

What you’ll see on this tour

Cathedral Square or Sobornaya Square  is the main square of the Moscow Kremlin that owes its name to the three cathedrals facing it.

It is here that solemn coronation and funeral processions of all the Russian tzars, patriarchs, and grand dukes of Moscow took place. Even these days, this square serves as a site for holding the inauguration ceremony of the President of Russia.

Cathedral of Dormition or Uspensky Sobor is a Russian Orthodox Church dedicated to Dormition of the Theotokos that refers to the Great Feast commemorating the death of Mary, Jesus' mother, and her resurrection before she rose to heaven. The church was built between 1475 and 1479, during the reign of Ivan III. The design of the construction with its five domes symbolizing Jesus and four Evangelists was subsequently used as a model for the other churches to be built across the country. The interior of the church is decorated by fresco painting, while the walls are adorned with the oldest icons collected by tzars as a trophy after having conquered various lands.

The Cathedral of the Archangel or Arkhangelsky sobor . The years of its construction fall between 1505 and 1508. It was used as the main necropolis for Russian tzars and grand princes before its relocation to St. Petersgurg. Today you can find 54 burials here, including 46 ornamented tombstones and bronze cases. Unlike the other Kremlin cathedrals, this one represents a great influence of Italian Renaissance style, which is clear from the exterior dominated by floral ornaments and arch-shaped frames. However, the interior of the church with its numerous icons, including the one of Archangel Michael, is constructed in a typical Russian manner.

The Cathedral of the Annunciation, or Blagoveschensky sobor is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos that refers to the Christian celebration of the announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus. The church building is attached to Grand Kremlin Palace, abutting to the Palace of Facets. Until the beginning of the 20th century, it remained a personal chapel for royal family members where they confided their sins to the abbot. Since the cathedral was built largely by local architects, its design maintained the traditions of Russian architecture. The most striking distinction of the building is its nine gilded onion domes and roof with kokoshnik ornamentation. The interior is represented by murals showcasing the biblical episodes along with glorious figures of Russian princes and dukes.

Ivan the Great Bell Tower is the tallest of the towers in the Moscow Kremlin, with a total height of 81 meters. It was constructed in 1508 to commemorate Ivan III, the grand duke of all Rus. The tower was of unparalleled height, and for many years, it was prohibited to erect any buildings in Moscow taller than the Bell Tower. The external walls of the building are painted in the way to harmoniously blend in to the buildings adjacent to it. The tower is formed by three octagonal drums, with a gilded dome and a seven-meter cross atop it.  Nowadays, the tower houses 18 small bells and four large bells, including Uspenskii Bell that weighs 65.5 tons. It rings occasionally during the greatest religious celebrations, such as Easter.

The Grand Kremlin Palace  was built in the period from 1837 to 1849 on the spot of the demolished mansion that had belonged to the grand princes. Its construction was aimed at highlighting the great power of tzarist autocracy. The palace has tremendous dimensions, with a total area of 25,000 square meters. The building contains more than 700 rooms, including five reception halls, which are used for signing treaties with other countries and holding diplomatic receptions, meetings, conferences and official ceremonies.

The Palace of the Facets  is a truly mesmerizing building with only one big, vaulted room inside that is as large as 500 square meters. This room was formerly used by the tzars as a throne room and main banqueting hall. However, even these days, the formal diplomatic receptions take place here, which is why the admission to the palace is limited. The construction of the building was started in 1487 by Marco Ruffo, an Italian architect. Most importantly, the palace gained its epithet ''faceted'' due to its facade decorated with sharp-edged blocks that resemble diamonds with their four facets. Adjacent to the side of the palace is the Red porch that used to serve as a staircase where the rulers appeared before they proceeded to the place of their coronation.

Terem Palace  is a five-storied building that was used as a royal residence for Russian tzars and their family members. The upper story that looks like a marquee served as a hall where Russian rulers summoned the members of boyar duma.  The building was originally constructed in the 16th century, but later in 1635-1936 was totally rebuilt by the first Romanov tzar.  The exterior is embellished with flamboyant ornamental stones and vibrant tiles. Inside the palace, the walls are covered with murals that were renewed in 1837 after a series of fires. At the eastern side of the Terem Palace there is a group of home churches and the palace's cathedral complex. Among them are the earliest St. Cathrene Church built in 1627, Eudokia church (1654), Church of the Vernicle (1635-1636) and the Verkhospasskiy (Upper Savior’s) cathedral.

The Tzar Cannon is one of the most popular tourist attractions. Being a purely symbolic display, it was never used in military purposes. However, the traces of firing are still found there. The cannon is deemed to be the largest bombarder (if judged by caliber) in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records. It is made of bronze and weighs 39.312 tons.

The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world with a weight of 201,924 kilograms and a height of 6.14 meters. However, since it was broken during metal casting, it was impossible to ring it. It is sometimes called a Kolokol III (Bell III), because it belongs to the third generation.

The Kremlin Arsenal was formerly used as an armory and was erected in 1736. Currently, it serves as a home for Russian military regiment that ensures the security of the highest state officials. The two-storied building has a trapezoid shape and is painted in yellow like the other official buildings on the Kremlin's area

The State Kremlin Palace or the Kremlin Palace of Congresses is a large modern building, faced with white marble that was constructed at the initiative of Nikita Khrushchev in 1961. Its main hall can accommodate six thousand people. Having been used as a place for holding party congresses over many years, it now serves as a popular concert hall.

The architectural ensemble of the Cathedral Square is open for public daily except Thursday, from 15 May to 30 September – from 9 30  to 18 00 ; from 1 October to 14 May – from 10 00  to 17 00 . Tickets for visitors under 16 are free of charge. 

Armory Museum

• Improving Services with New Honda CR-V 2012 Let’s me introduce my new car, new Honda CR-V (2012), that I got yesterday on August 17 2012. It is the save and comfortable compact crossover that perfectly fits for family and business use taking into account specific of road condition and traffic in Russia.
• Earth Hour – Saving our planet one hour at a time Once a year, all around the world, you can notice the lights dimming in many city areas and landmarks, people gathering with candles and chanting slogans. You might think what is being described is a blackout or global electronic disruption of some sort, but this is not the case.
• Ice Replica of Moscow City in Miniature on Poklonnaya Hill During the winter holidays from December 30, 2015, through January 13, 2016, the exciting exhibition project “Icy Moscow: In the Family Circle” attracted thousands and thousands of citizens and visitors of all ages, from the very young to the very old, to Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill in the capital of Russia to watch artists carve miniature copies of Moscow’s major attractions out of ice.
• Moscow Winter Photo Tour with Soichi Hayashi (Japan) on Jan 25, 2018 Personalized guided Moscow city tour in winter season with my dear client and professional photographer from Japan, Soichi Hayashi, that was held on January 25, 2018. Introduction slideshow and photographs with descriptions.
• Grand Kremlin Palace Special tour to the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Official Residence of the President of Russian Federation which is not open to the general public. Duration: 1-1,5 hours. Must be booked in advance.
• Armory Chamber (Museum) Armory Chamber is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established at the beginning of 19th century and located in the Moscow Kremlin. The private tour can be arranged at the time that best suits to your sightseeing itinerary. Duration 1,5-2 hours.
• The ultimate guide to driving safely and avoiding distractions Being able to drive a car is an incredibly useful skill which allows us to quickly and efficiently get from point A to point B. As I drive for a lot of my tours, I pride myself on being a good and safe driver – my clients wouldn't appreciate getting into an accident on their holidays!
• Noble writers buried on Novedevichy Cemetery Useful guide to find locations of famous Russian and Soviet writers buried on Novodevichy cemetery with short backgrounds and pictures of the tombs and personal photographs.
• Moscow Evening Photoshoot Celebrating 2nd Wedding Anniversary Moscow evening (twilight) photo session on July 1st, 2019 during night tour with my Dear clients from Iran, Mozhgan and Siamak, celebrating their 2nd wedding anniversary in Russia.

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About Me in Short

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

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Call Us Today! 877-WHY-ISLAM

Visit a mosque 2 min read.

We’ll Do Our Best to Arrange a Visit for You.

877-WHY-ISLAM has a nationwide team of volunteers, who host non-Muslims at their local Mosques.

If you’re interested, we’ll find a mosque close to your residence, then we’ll schedule a good time and date for you to come by.

You can visit the mosque, view one of 5 daily prayer services, attend one of their interfaith events, or just converse with the many members of a mosque. If you have any questions, you can also discuss them with the mosque members.

If you wish to visit a mosque in your area, fill out the form and one of our mosque-guide volunteers will get back to you within 24 hours.

“…Thus , if this is the case with the acts of worship, it is no wonder that mosques carry a great social and spiritual place in the lives of the Muslims. The mosque is the thing which unites them and their efforts. It refines their souls and awakens their minds and hearts. It solves their problems. The mosque shows their strength and cohesiveness.” – Dr. Mustafa as-Siba’i

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Day 2 - Moscow

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. Moscow city tour City tour including all major sights of Russian capital such as Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, Bolshoi Theater, Kremlin Embankment, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Sparrow Hills and Moscow State University, Tverskaya Street, New Maiden Convent, the Diplomatic Village, Victory Park with the view on the Moscow International Business Center «Moscow City», the Triumphal Arch, Kutuzovsky Prospect, Arbat street and many other interesting places which are really worth to seeing. 13.00 – Excursion to Moscow Kremlin (territory + Cathedral) You have a guided tour of this historical fortress, where you visit the famous Square of Four Cathedrals and go inside one of its gorgeous cathedrals decorated with magnificent frescoes. 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 17.00 – Back to the hotel. Free time. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 17.00, transport from 10:00 to 17.00, Kremlin tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, dinner.

Day 3 – Moscow / Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide at the hotel lobby. 10.00 – Visit of Cosmonautics museum 12.30 – Walking tour of VDNH park 14.00 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.30 – Transfer to the railway station. 17.30 – Departure to Saint Petersburg. 21.00 – Arrival to Saint Petersburg. Meeting with English speaking guide. Transfer to hotel. Accommodation at the hotel (extra). Services: Moscow – guide from 10.00 to 17.30, transport from 10.00 to 17.00, museum tickets, water 0,5 l PP, lunch, r/w ticket (2d class), St.Petersburg – guide for meeting, transfer from r/w station to hotel.

Day 4 – Saint-Petersburg

10.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Saint Petersburg city tour with visiting of Peter and Paul Fortress

Visiting of Cathedral Mosque of St. Petersburg 14.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Free time in the city centre. Back to the hotel by metro. Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 10.00 to 18.00, transport from 10.00 to 14.30, metro ticket water 0,5 l PP, lunch

Day 5 – Saint-Petersburg

09.00 – Meeting with English speaking guide. Excursion to Peterhof 13.00 – Lunch at the local (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 15.00-17.00 – St.Petersburg rivers and canals boat trip 17.00 – Back to the hotel. 19.00 – Dinner at the hotel (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). Services: guide from 09:00 to 18:00, transport from 09:00 to 18:00, entrance to park, boat ticket, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Day 6 – Saint-Petersburg / Moscow

Transfer from hotel to r/w station 09:00 – Train departure From St.Petersburg. 12.58 – Arrival to Moscow. 13.30 – Lunch at the local cafe (Halal/Indian/Vegetarian food). 14.30 – Transfer to the airport. Services: St.Petersburg – English guide, transport for transfer from hotel to a/p, r/w ticket (2d class) Moscow – English guide from 13.00 to 16.30, transport from 13.00 to 16.30, water 0,5 l PP, lunch.

Excursions are already included in this tour. You can make any changes: add, reduce, change the order, request any others that may be more interesting to you.

For this tour you can order a guide who speaks another language.

We provide professional guides who speak Chinese, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Greek, Chinese, Arabic (Farsi/Persian), Japanese, Turkish, Slovenian, Polish, Thai, Mandarin, Korean, Hungarian, Serbian, others.

All our guides are licensed and have extensive experience and will be your main assistant in communication.

Below there are basic model classes that we provide, including passenger cars no older than 6 years and some buses models with WI-FI, 2018-2019.

Standard cars (Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Jetta , Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hunda Elantra)

Comfort cars (Toyota Camry, Ford Mondeo, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Teana, Hyundai i40, Opel Insignia).

Business cars (Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5, Audi A6).

Executive cars (Mercedes-Benz S-class, BMW 7, Audi A8).

Minivans (Mercedes-Benz Viano, Hundai Starex, Mercedes Vito).

Minibuses (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit).

Buses (Iveco, Neoplan, Setra, Higer, Young, others).

The price of this tour may vary depending on the date of your arrival, as well as on the exchange rate of the local currency rubles against the US dollar and Euro.

For this tour you need to arrange entrance visa to Russia in advance. We are a licensed tour operator provide you with a letter of visa support. It will allow you to apply to the Consulate of Russia in your country and obtain an entry visa to Russia.

A number of countries of the world have the right to visa-free entry into Russia.

For this tour you can order additionally any services. Book a table in advance at the popular restaurant.

We will offer a selection of quality restaurants with different cuisines: Russian, European, Asian, Chinese, Mexican, Arabic, Halal, Indian, Gourme, others.

Order ticket for an evening performance for ballet, opera, folklore show, variety show, symphonic music concert

Any concierge service available upon your request.

• The tour is possible in any day
• Days of excursions may vary
• If change the exchange rate of the local currency (rubles) prices may be recalculate

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Didn't book FREE tour? Do it now!

2,5 absolutely FREE DAILY walking tour in Moscow. We're TOP-rated company according to TA reviews! Book now and get meeting points details!

TOURS / SERVICES

BEST KREMLIN TOUR

Just 45 € - the best price for the best kremlin tour in moscow book now, ...also in petersburg.

Top Rated City Daily Tours

Welcome! Good to see you here!

• We're top-rated tour company in Moscow, based on your TripAdvisor reviews!
• DAILY tours. Moscow Free Tour is the only company in the city offering 5 daily tours, including the Kremlin, regardless of the weather, day of the week and group size!
• Totally FREE 2.5-hour city tour and great paid tours!
• Great routes which cover must-see places off the beaten track!
• Charismatic, entertaining and experienced local tour guides who love Moscow and speak English fluently!
• Always best prices in Moscow
• No prepayment for daily tours (except Kremlin Tour)
• No cancellation fees for daily tours (except Kremlin Tour)
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

WE DO GREAT TOURS SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, IN ANY WEATHER AND FOR ANY GROUP SIZE. JUST CHOOSE AND BOOK NOW!

Find more details!

See the day schedule and book tours now.

You can split your tours or do several of them on the same day.

Moscow Free Tour: Every day, 10:45 AM

Since 2011 Moscow Free Tour has been rated number 1 among all the Moscow tour companies (according to TripAdvisor.com, the world's largest travel site). Our Free Tour covers the most important and interesting attractions of the city: St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, Lenin's mausoleum, etc.

WHY DO WE RUN THIS TOUR FOR FREE?

• We love our city and we want to share it with guests, regardless of their budget. We want to change foreign tourists' perception of Moscow and show a beautiful, modern, open-minded and friendly city. You might like our Free Tour so much that you will decide to join our paid tours.

Just make a booking, and our guides will eagerly take you for an amazing walk through our magical city!

More info & meeting point details

Moscow kremlin tour: 2.30 pm, except thursday.

The Moscow Kremlin is a must-see attraction in Russia, a beautiful fortress in the heart of the city full of history and legends. It used to be a residence of Russian tsars and communist leaders and now it's a working place of the president of Russia. Behind medieval walls you will discover the oldest square of Moscow and amazing cathedrals where Russian rulers used to get married, crowned and buried. You will see once the largest cannon and church bell in the world. 8 hundred years of Russian history in one place. Don't miss this experience with Moscow Free tour. No prepayment and no cancelation fee.

PLEASE PAY YOUR ATTENTION: PREPAYMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR KREMLIN TOUR

Moscow Kremlin Introduction Tour: Every day 3PM, except Thursday

This tour is definitely useful and beneficial for tourists who visit the Kremlin for the first time. The guide will meet you in front of the Monument to Marshal Zhukov nearby the Four Seasons Hotel and take you on a 45-minute introduction tour about the Kremlin in English. You’ll receive the most important information about the Kremlin as well as other city center highlights. Behind medieval walls you will discover the oldest square of Moscow and amazing cathedrals, where Russian rulers used to get married, crowned and buried.

Moscow Metro Tour: Every day 2PM, except Friday at 12:30PM

Take our Moscow Metro Tour and discover why our subway is recognized as the most beautiful in the world!

Booking is not essential! Just come and join the tour!

Communist Moscow Tour: Every day, 5:30 PM

For more than 70 years Moscow was the capital of the huge Soviet empire. The streets of the city are still full of remnants of the communist regime and the Cold War, and the fearsome Soviet strongholds still guard the young democracy in Russia.

Alternative Moscow Tour, 6:00 PM.

• St. John's hill, a quiet place in the city center with a pre-revolutionary spirit
• Khokhlovka, Russian hipsters and street art
• Khitrovka, the most terrifying neighborhood of Moscow in the nineteenth century: criminals, brothels and alcohol
• Zamoskvorechie, beautiful streets and lanes full of legends and love stories.

Booking is essential!

MOSCOW CITY PASS

Save money buying all of our tours! Take Moscow City Pass and get 4 daily tours just for 97€ .

• Kremlin tour
• Communist Tour
• Alternative Moscow Tour

HOW CAN I BUY IT?

Just choose and book the first tour you’d like to take – you’ll be able to purchase the Moscow City Pass on that tour and then visit other three tours during the week.

Bunker-42: A Secret Stalin's Times Bunker in the Center of Moscow

Hit the secret nuclear bunker of the the Cold War times in the center of Moscow!

• walk with a guide across all levels of the secret Bunker-42
• visit the Museum of the Cold War and get a crash course on the history of the war
• as a little bonus, you will "survive" a nuclear attack and launch a ballistic missile!

Please note that tour happens not every day and the schedule may vary. If you booked the tour online, please wait until our administrator will contact you to confirm the date and time of the tour. Or contact us +7 495 222 34 66.

Utopian Soviet Buildings

• The Palace of the Soviets instead of the Cathedral of the Christ the Saviour. It could have become one of the highest buildings in the world with a 100 m Lenin statue on the top.
• The eighth Stalinist skyscraper instead of the Zaryadye Park. It was supposed to be the tallest of all the Sisters.
• The Narkomtiazhprom (the People’s Commissariat of Heavy Industry) building instead of the GUM. How would the Red Square look like with three skyscrapers or gigantic staircases going all the way up to the 16th floor?
• The Palace of Labour instead of the Moskva Hotel. What was it, kind of a fantastic beast lying on the square or an ultimate Constructivist manifesto?
• The alternative Lenin’s Mausoleum, the “Leningradskaya Pravda” buildings and many others.
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"A very enjoybale day in Moscow. We had a very nice and knowledgeable guide Anastasia.(Nastia) She was very passionate about the City and we learnt so much in our brief four hours walk with her! Certainly this walking tour added a lot of value to our Moscow Holiday. A great idea to educate visitors about Russia and Moscow. The group was intimate enough to ask questions and stop for snacks etc..we thoriughly enjoyed it and would highly reccomend it.Carry on doing a great job!"

"I really enjoyed the tour, it was a great experience, very informative and fun. I will definitely tell everybody about that tour, keep it it is a fantastic idea!"

"Sorry I do not remember the names :( ... They were very talkative and very into everything. I think they both really love the city, and they made me feel like this to. They knew much about History, which was very informative! Great guides!!!"

"We partook of the fantastic Petersburg Free Tour. Due to our timing during the low season (shockingly not everyone is flocking to Moscow while the average temperature is 15F), it ended up being just us and Sonia, the afore-mentioned super-guide. She quickly ascertained the limited scope of our wanderings.."

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5 facts about Moscow’s new central mosque

1. One of the largest mosques in Russia

Workers finish the exterior of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque. Source: Valery Sharifulin/TASS

The central Moscow mosque (Moscow Cathedral Mosque) was demolished and rebuilt and is now one of the biggest in the country. Its minarets are 72 meters tall and its central dome is 46 meters high. It will be the second largest Muslim prayer facility in Russia after the Salawat Yulayev mosque, which is being built in Ufa.

The new Moscow mosque has nearly 20 times as much space as the old building and will be able to accommodate up to 10,000 people. The mosque has seven elevators, air conditioning and is disabled-friendly.

2. $170 million in construction costs

The main prayer hall of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque. Source: Valery Sharifulin/TASS

The reconstruction of the mosque cost $170 million, with most of the money being donated by Russian businessman and senator Suleyman Kerimov in memory of his father. The list of donors also includes Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, who donated $26,000 on behalf of Palestinian children.

While Turkey has donated a minbar, the pulpit from which the imam delivers Friday prayers, and a mihrab, a semicircular niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca.

The walls and ceilings have traditional Russian ornamental inscriptions, which were carved by Turkish craftsmen.

The dome and pavilions are covered with 12 kg of gold leaf. The architects decided to cover the domes of the mosque with gold to blend in with the Moscow skyline, which is dominated by golden domes of its churches.

3. Location in the historical center

The Mosque is located in the historical neighborhood called Meshchanskaya sloboda, appeared in Moscow in 18th century. Source: Valery Sharifuddin/TASS

The plot of land in Vypolzov Lane, where the Moscow Cathedral Mosque is located, was purchased by Tatar merchants in 1902. The original mosque was built in 1904 and remained at this site until it was demolished in 2011 as part of the refurbishment project that started in the spring of 2005.

4. Controversy over the demolition of the old mosque

The demolition of the original mosque provoked an outcry from the general public and city conservationists alike. Rustam Rakhmatullin, coordinator of Arkhnadzor, an influential Moscow conservation group, described it as “an act of barbarism exacerbated by administrative arbitrariness.”

Several organizations and Muslim leaders condemned the decision to demolish the old mosque, accusing the Russian Council of Muftis of unlawful actions and “the destruction of historical heritage.”

The Council of Muftis said reconstruction was necessary since the old building had partially caved in and was no longer safe.

5. Moscow continues to face a shortage of mosques

Muslims filled the streets around Moscow Cathedral Mosque during celebrations of Uraza Bayram (Eid al-Fitr). Source: Sergei Savostyanov/TASS

According to various estimates, during major religious holidays, up to 100,000 people gather outside the central mosque alone. This leads to overcrowding of nearby streets and spaces.

“I am glad that Moscow will now have a big and modern mosque,” Albir Sharafutdinov, a 39-year old practitioner of Islam told RBTH.  “Yet I think it may have been more useful to spend that money not to build one huge mosque but a couple of smaller ones in other parts of the city.  It takes an hour or an hour and a half to get here from a suburb.”

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14 Surprising Facts About Moscow Cathedral Mosque

Written by Ronnie Cavender

Modified & Updated: 03 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque is an architectural marvel and a significant landmark in the heart of Russia’s capital city. This magnificent mosque holds a rich history and is a symbol of religious tolerance and cultural diversity. While many people are familiar with the iconic Red Square and the Kremlin, the Moscow Cathedral Mosque often remains a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

In this article, we will uncover 14 surprising facts about the Moscow Cathedral Mosque that will leave you amazed. From its breathtaking architecture to the uplifting role it plays in the lives of the local Muslim community, there is so much to discover about this fascinating place of worship. So, let’s dive in and unravel the mysteries surrounding this remarkable structure.

Key Takeaways:

• The Moscow Cathedral Mosque is a symbol of religious tolerance and cultural diversity, showcasing breathtaking architecture and promoting interfaith interactions and understanding.
• With its capacity to accommodate thousands, advanced technology, and serene surroundings, the mosque offers a peaceful sanctuary for worship and a rich educational and cultural experience for visitors.

A Symbol of Religious Tolerance

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque stands as a symbol of religious tolerance in Russia, serving as the main mosque for Muslims in Moscow and the country at large.

Magnificent Architecture

The mosque’s architecture is simply breathtaking. It combines traditional Russian and Ottoman architectural styles, featuring stunning blue domes, intricate carvings, and intricate mosaic patterns.

Capacity to Accommodate Thousands

The mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshipers at a time, making it one of the largest mosques in Russia and Europe.

History of Reconstruction

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque has undergone several reconstructions throughout its history. The most recent reconstruction took place from 2005 to 2015, resulting in the magnificent structure we see today.

The Influence of Ottoman Culture

The mosque’s design was heavily influenced by Ottoman architecture , with minarets resembling those seen in Istanbul. This influence is a testament to the historical and cultural connections between Russia and the Ottoman Empire.

Home to a Library

The mosque houses a well-stocked library with a vast collection of religious texts, Islamic literature, and scholarly works.

Welcoming Tourists

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque welcomes visitors and tourists from around the world. It offers guided tours that provide insights into Islamic culture and architecture.

Beautiful Interior Design

The interior of the mosque is equally stunning. Intricate chandeliers, colorful carpets, and geometric patterns create a serene and captivating ambiance.

Embracing Modern Technology

The mosque is equipped with advanced technology, including a modern sound system and live streaming capabilities for Friday sermons and special events.

Peaceful Surroundings

The mosque is nestled in a serene and picturesque location, surrounded by lush gardens and serene courtyards, providing a peaceful sanctuary for worshipers and visitors.

Interfaith Interactions

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque promotes interfaith interactions and cultural understanding, organizing events and programs that encourage dialogue and mutual respect among different religious communities.

A Place of Learning

In addition to religious activities, the mosque also serves as an educational center, offering courses on Islamic studies, Arabic language , and Quran recitation.

Active Role in Community Outreach

The mosque actively engages in community outreach programs, providing humanitarian aid, assisting the needy, and organizing charitable initiatives.

Open for Prayers

The mosque is open to Muslims for daily prayers, where they can find solace and seek spiritual guidance.

In conclusion, the Moscow Cathedral Mosque is an iconic landmark in the heart of Moscow that holds a rich history and architectural significance. From its stunning design to its important role as a place of worship for Moscow’s Muslim community, this mosque offers a unique experience for visitors.

With its towering minarets, beautiful interior, and peaceful atmosphere, the Moscow Cathedral Mosque is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Russian culture and history. Whether you are a religious pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about exploring different landmarks, this mosque will leave you in awe.

So, next time you find yourself in Moscow, make sure to pay a visit to the Moscow Cathedral Mosque and immerse yourself in its grandeur and spirituality. It is truly a testament to the diversity and beauty of the city’s architectural landscape.

1. What is the architectural style of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque?

The Moscow Cathedral Mosque showcases elements of traditional Russian and Middle Eastern architectural styles, blending both influences to create a unique and visually striking design.

2. How old is the Moscow Cathedral Mosque?

The original mosque was built in 1904, but it was later demolished in 2011 to make way for a new and larger structure. The current mosque was inaugurated in 2015.

3. Can tourists visit the Moscow Cathedral Mosque?

Yes, the Moscow Cathedral Mosque is open to visitors. However, it is essential to respect the mosque’s rules and guidelines, such as dressing modestly and being mindful of prayer times.

4. Are there any restrictions on entering the Moscow Cathedral Mosque?

While the mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths, it is important to note that there are certain areas within the mosque that may be restricted to non-Muslims. Visitors should be respectful of these areas and follow any guidance provided by mosque authorities.

5. Is there an entrance fee for the Moscow Cathedral Mosque?

No, there is no entrance fee required to visit the Moscow Cathedral Mosque. However, donations are welcomed to support the maintenance of the mosque and its activities.

6. Are there any guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque. These tours provide valuable insights into the mosque’s heritage and can enhance the visitor’s overall experience.

7. Can I take photographs inside the mosque?

Photography is generally allowed inside the mosque, but it is advised to seek permission and respect the privacy of worshippers. It is important to be mindful of the sanctity of the space and not disrupt ongoing prayers.

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Visit of the Mosque - Cathedral of Cordoba

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Visit the Mosque of Cordoba - From Malaga

Explore beautiful Cordoba on this full-day tour of a city known as the heart of Andalusia. Explore the Roman Bridge, the Jewish Quarter (one of Europe's largest World Heritage sites), and the Great Mosque of Cordoba.

Night Walking tour in the city center of Cordoba

Walking tour in which we will go through the most picturesque lanes and squares of Cordoba. Accompanied by an Official Guide of Cordoba we will visit emblematic places like the Capuchinos Square...

Festival of the Courtyards of Cordoba

Walk in the middle of the flowering season, the intimacy of the Cordoban courtyards opens up for the visitor. These private houses are spread over more than 600 streets, alleys and alleys, which draw the largest historic center in Europe, and today is a World Heritage Site.

History of Cordoba

Cordoba was the capital of the Roman province ( Provincia Hispania Ulterior Baetica ), the most splendid period, when it had so many buildings dedicated to joyful matters as Rome, to which it gave a lot of philosophers like Lucio Anneo Séneca , orators like Marco Anneo Séneca and poets like Lucano . Afterwards, it occupied an important place in the Spania province of the Byzantine Empire and during the Visigoth period. It managed to regain the status of Capital during the Independent Emirate and the Western Omeya Caliphate. In this period it reached its maximum apogee, having a large population, between 250.000 and 500.000 people, and becoming, in the 10th century, one of the biggest cities in the world, as well as a large cultural, political and economical center. The Mosque of Cordoba, one of the most well known monuments, dates from this period.

Nowadays, it is a big cultural reference for the south of Europe, one of the most beautiful, well kept and with the highest quality lifestyle city of Spain, with one of the most extensive historical places of the world, declared World Heritage Site by the UNESCO on December 17th 1984. The city presents several modern and well communicated areas, which are also references of Cordoba in the 21st century, standing out the Zoco and Plan Renfe districts for their urban dimensions and high quality homes, though the prices of houses have gone sky-high. Cordoba is also candidate for the European Cultural Capital for 2016.

The Junta de Andalucia has been studying for some time, the construction of the Metropolitan Area of Cordoba, which would consist of (apart from the capital), the regions of Villafranca , Obejo , La Carlota , Villaharta , Villaviciosa , Almodóvar del Río and Guadalcázar , counting altogether with an approximate population of 351.000 people. The Law 5/2002, established that any co-habit couples were regulated, with the same rights as married couples, therefore in this Autonomic Community any couple, with independence of their sexual tendency, have the same rights and obligations as the married ones.

History of the Mosque of Cordoba

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is the most important monument of all the Western Islamic world, and one of the most amazing in the world. The evolution of the “Omeya” style in Spain is resumed in the history of the Mosque of Cordoba, as well as other styles such as the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque of the Christian architecture.

It seems as if the place that the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba occupies nowadays was dedicated, from ancient times, to the cult of different divinities. In this same place, and during the Visigoth occupation, another building was constructed, the “San Vicente” Basilic. On top of this basilic and after paying half of the site, the primitive Mosque was constructed. This basilic, of rectangular shape, was shared for a period of time between Moslems and Christians. After the Muslim enlargement, the Basilic became property of Abderraman I, who destroyed it to construct the first “Mosque Alhama” or main Mosque of the city. Nowadays, some of the constructive elements of the Visigoth building are integrated in the first part of Abderraman I.

The Great Mosque has two different areas: the courtyard or “arcade sahn“, where the “alminar” (minaret) is constructed (beneath the Renaissance tower) by Abd al-Rahman III, and the “haram” or praying hall. The interior space consists of a forest of columns and red and white arches giving a strong chromatic effect. The site is divided into 5 different areas, corresponding each one of them to the different expansions that have occurred on it.

The Roman Period

There is very little information about the origin of Cordoba. The first news date to the Bronze period. There was a native place called “Corduba”. Since 206 b.c. when the city was conquered by the Romans under the rule of “Lucio Mario”, Cordoba became an important city, being used as the place where Roman troops had their base. Cordoba was considered then as the unofficial capital of the “Hispania Ulterior”.

It was from the civil wars between Cæsar and Pompey, when Cordoba started going down as a historical city. After Cæsar won the war, Cordoba suffered a big destruction and the population decreased, though it did not loose its previous privileges. After the administrative reforms started by Augustus, Cordoba received the status of Colony, turning into the capital of the newly created “Bética” province. During the first three centuries of the Roman Empire, the city experienced a big push, when it become the capital of the province. There were schools of very high level and some local personalities became Senators at Rome. Cordoba was the center from where official post was sent to the administrative archives. The trade on oil, mineral and agricultural products, acquired a big importance; this was in part due to the construction of the “Via Augusta” (Augusta Boulevard) that passed over the Roman bridge on the “Guadalquivir”, and joined the cities of “Linares” with “Cadiz”, and the “Betica” with the rest of the Hispanic settlements. The most outstanding figure of the Hispanic-Roman Cordoba was “Séneca” (Lucio Anneo Seneca: Hispanic philosopher) who was “Nero’s” teacher.

When the civil war came to an end, Cordoba received the status of Colony, becoming capital of the newly created “Bética” province. During the first three centuries of the Roman Empire, the city experienced a big impulse, it was the most flourishing in Andalusia. There were Schools of high level. This was in part due to the construction of the “Via Augusta” (Augusta Boulevard) that passed over the Roman bridge on the “Guadalquivir”, and joined the cities of “Linares” with “Cadiz”, and the “Betica” with the rest of the Hispanic settlements. They built a wall around Cordoba, as the archaeological ruins demonstrate.

Visigoth Period

The decline of Cordoba at this period started with "Diocleciano" (Roman Emperor), the status of Capital of Andalusia, that Cordoba had acquired, was moved to "Hispalis" (Seville) along with the Christian movement or expansion. The Christian communities started having great importance as the paleochristian sarcophagus demonstrate, which are kept at the "Alcazar" and at the Archaeological Museum.

In the 5th century a huge transformation took place; Cordoba was plundered by vandals, who gave the actual name to the Andalusian region. The Roman power started disappearing and a Visigoth Doge established at the "Bética". Cordoba suffered for a length of time the rivalries between those who were fighting for the power, and also the fights between "Leovigildo" (Visigoth King of Spain) and his son "Hermenegildo", who ended up conquering Cordoba. From that moment on, a dominant minority imposed over the Hispanic-Roman population.

During the reign of the Catholic "Recaredo", the Visigoth people built the "Basilica de San Vicente" (San Vicente Church), on top of a previous Roman temple, in honour to the Sun, on the same site where later on, the Mosque Aljama was constructed. The nobiliary revolts were constant, which led to the civil wars that preceded the Moslem invasion.

The Muslim Cordoba

In the year 711 Cordoba was conquered by the generals of the Arab invader Tariq. The invaders installed the seat of their government in the Visigothic fortress, located near the present Alcazar of the Catholic Monarchs, and appointed a wali or governor.

Five years after the conquest, the Arabs distinguished Cordoba as the capital of the lands of Al-Andalus. The Roman bridge was rebuilt, the walls were restored and on the left bank of the Guadalquivir was founded the suburb, called Secunda, today known as Campo de la Verdad. In Cordoba, a primitive mosque was founded when the Umayyad and Abbasid were finally separated after a bloody struggle. In the year 756, the Umayyad prince Abd al-Rahman defeated the Abbasid emir and rose to power as the sole authority of Andalusia, having become Abd al-Rahman I. He promoted the establishment of the mosque in 786. His successors fostered the development of culture and in Córdoba mystics, oriental masters, mathematicians, doctors, philosophers and poets settled down. The mosque was completed and enlarged by Abd al-Rahman II.

Little by little the Arab civilization was consolidating. The greatest greatness of Muslim Cordoba was achieved by Abd al-Rahman III. He took the title of Caliph in 929 and made Cordoba an independent caliphate of Damascus and the most flourishing, cultured and populous city in Europe. He enlarged the mosque again and provided it with a courtyard with porticoes. At 8 km from the capital he built the sumptuous palace of Medina Azahara. His son Alhakem II finished off the palatial works, enlarged the mosque again and obtained a library of 400,000 volumes, the most important in the world. According to Arab sources, during its caliphate the city reached a million inhabitants, and had 1,600 mosques, 300,000 homes, 80,000 shops and countless public baths.

This splendour began to decline during the reign of his successor, who left the government in the hands of the warlord Almanzor, who carried out the last expansion of the Mosque.

The Caliphate began to dismember due to the civil wars, which ended with the central power and encouraged the formation of the Taifa kingdoms throughout Andalusia. The Berbers, aided by King Sancho of Castile, seized Medina Azahara in 1010, burning and looting it. During the 11th and 12th centuries Cordoba was just another taifa. It fell into the hands of Seville during the time of the poet king Motamid. Its last little king, Ibn Hud, lost the city to Ferdinand III the Saint.

Among the many sages and artists of the Caliphate Cordoba, the poet Ibn Hazam (994-1064), the philosopher Averroes (1126-1198) and the Jewish medico-thinker Maimonides (1135-1204) stand out.

The Christian Period

On June 29th 1236, Cordoba fell under the domination of the King "Fernando III". After signing the capitulations, the Moslem population was expelled from the town. They began building new churches with a "Fernandino" style (in honour to the King Fernando III), also called the "reconquest style" (Hispanic-Gothic style).

The city continued to be the center of civil struggles, that only calmed down with the "Reyes Católicos" (the Catholic Kings).

16th – 20th Centuries

Cordoba started loosing its importance and population, despite the construction of the "Puerta del Puente" (the Bridge's Door) and the "Plaza de la Corredera" (the "Corredera" Square) by the dynasty of the "Austrias", and the creation of the courts in 1570 by "Felipe II" (Phillip II).

During the reign of "Felipe IV", in the next century, took place the "bread's revolt" due to the shortage of wheat.

During the Independence War in the 19th century, Cordoba went through a patriotic excitement. Years later, Cordoba suffered a period of struggles between absolutists and liberals. In 1868, when "Isabel II" was Queen, the liberals defeated the royalists at the "Alcolea" Bridge.

In the mid 20th century, the city changed its aspect, it reaffirmed the popular traditions and it got modernized.

Discover the evolution of the city until now. Soon the complete video will be projected in different points of the city of Cordoba, the information will be updated when the places are confirmed.

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On this page, you will find all the information you require to organise your visit to the Mosque of Cordoba efficiently and quickly so that you can enjoy the monuments in all their splendour.

Find out here about the  price  of the ticket, how to book,  opening times , guided visits, accesses to the complex and where to stay in Cordoba, and you will be able to enjoy the historical and cultural heritage of Cordoba and the Mosque.

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Al-Farooq Masjid

We welcome and thank you for your interest in visiting Al-Farooq Masjid of Atlanta. Our tours last approximately 30 minutes and require an appointment. Please allow at least 3 business days in advance so that we can ensure a host/hostess will be available.  If you have additional questions regarding your visit or have not received a response, kindly email us directly at [email protected].  Thanks!

The Visit to the Masjid Will Include: 1. A tour of the masjid, discussing the architecture and role of the Masjid in traditional and contemporary community life. 2. An orientation to the basic beliefs of Islam and the demographics of the Muslim’s in Atlanta. 3. Basic Islamic terminology will be introduced to enhance the educational experience. 4. The group may observe one of our five daily prayers (depending on timing) 5. The visitors will take part in an open discussion with a question and answer period with the tour leader.

What is a Mosque (Masjid)? The Masjid is a central location for congregational prayer and community services. Our services include a 5 daily prayers, library, education center, private school, recreational areas, and areas for social events/activities.

The Masjid is also a central hub for religious gatherings which include our Friday sermon (Jummah) and marriage ceremonies. Many Masjid’s also provide counseling for both religious and non-religious affairs.

What to Wear? Men and women should wear loose fitting clothing and cover their body except hands, face and feet.

Women are required to cover their hair with a scarf. For smaller groups, scarfs are available upon request.

Structure of the Masjid Upon entering the Masjid, you will be asked to remove your shoes, so we can maintain the cleanliness of our prayer space. Please feel free to carry/wear a pair of socks as several areas are constructed with tile floors.

We thank you for your interest in visiting Al-Farooq Masjid of Atlanta. Please feel free to let us know if there is anything we can do to make your trip an enjoyable experience.

*Please also note, that no alcohol or pork is allowed inside the Masjid

MOHID is Al-Farooq Masjid's preferred method of accepting donations/payments.

Please write a check to “ Al-Farooq Masjid ” and either put it within a donation box at the masjid or mail it to:

1st Jum'ah Service: 2:00pm (English Bayaan starts at 1:50pm)

2nd Jum'ah Service: 2:55pm sharp

Please select Lovejoy Muslim Cemetery as the category to make payments for Cemetery services.  Call or text Fareed Ahmed with questions at 678-368-3939.

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Things you need to know when visiting a mosque

Be it by floating along the banks of the Bosphorus or by trekking along the craggy cliffs of the Emerald Isle , religious buildings are a must-see when travelling. Yet making sure your visit is respectful can be rather tricky. This is especially true when entering  the  stunning temples of Istanbul . Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of things you need to know when visiting a mosque in this mesmerising city, a highlight of any trip to Turkey . 

When can you visit a mosque?

Firstly, be aware that not all mosques are open to the public. Secondly, the majority close to visitors during  hours of worship. Although Turkish Muslims perform the prayer ritual – known as namaz – five times a day, it’s not vital that muslims pray in mosques. However, many strive to do so. The exact time of the ezan (call to prayer) changes from day to day and from place to place, according to longitude and latitude, hours of daylight and the geographical relationship to Mecca. So how will you know it’s prayer time in Istanbul? To be honest, it’s hard not to know as this enchanting call is belted out from the minarets dotted throughout out the city centre.

If you are non-Muslim, avoid entering mosques within half an hour after the ezan and also avoid visiting on Fridays from the later hours of the morning to early afternoon, as this is a popular prayer time. A good rule of thumb is that if the mosque is busy with worshippers, go back later.

What to wear when visiting a mosque for the first time

As a rule everyone must wear modest, loose-fitting clothes that show very little skin. For men, it is better to wear long pants and long sleeved tops; for women, trousers, full-length skirts or dresses with sleeves that cover the arms. Along with these rules, many suggest that women wear a headscarf in the prayer hall. We also advise that you refrain from wearing loud colours and to remember to take off your shoes before entering. 

What not to do when entering a mosque

Upon entering a mosque, refrain from rolling up your sleeves as this is interpreted as a serious lack of respect. Other lesser-known signs of disrespect are easy to commit. One, for instance, is that you should always enter a mosque with the right foot first and leave with the left foot. Secondly, you shouldn’t point your feet in the direction of Mecca when sitting. Thirdly, keep in mind that members of the opposite mustn’t shake hands with members of the opposite sex.

When entering mosques you will usually hear “Assalam Alaikum” which means “peace be upon you.” The correct reply is “Wa alaikum-as-salam” which means “peace be upon you too.” Non-muslim visitors are not expected to return the greeting, but doing so will go do down extremely well. 

Gender separation

Depending on the mosque you visit it may have two entrances: one for men and one for women. This is normally clearly marked above the entrance. These lead to separate prayer rooms. Usually men and women are allowed to enter and visit the mosque together. Again, as with all the advice here, pay attention to the rules of visiting displayed at the entrance.

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