Russia is part of the Soviet Union. As we know that the Soviet Union embraces communism. But it does not mean there is no religious history in this superpower country. Embracing religion in Russia requires a great struggle. Christians were fighting with government to practice their religion and belief. So do with Muslims. The struggle of Muslims to keep practicing worship in ancient Russia is quite large. Until several overseas presidents, such as the president of Indonesia, the presidents of the Middle East, have contributed to the liberation of religion in Russia, especially for Muslims. Because of this past struggle, Russia has historical places for Muslims. Russia is perfect for religious tourism for Muslims. This country holds many historical signs of Islamic struggle in Europe. This is some best places in Moscow for Muslim traveler :
1. Historical Mosque
This mosque is the first mosque that built in Moscow. Muslims need a lot of struggle to build this mosque. At that time, the mosque building should not be draw attention compared to other buildings.
Finally, the mosque was built with wood and looks like an ordinary house. Historical mosque only has one storey and one tower.
Historical Mosque even once stood in the courtyard of a Sulmamit Murza Simenej’s house. He was an interpreter of foreign affairs. See also Popular Foods in Moscow During Ramadan
2. Asadullaev House
In 1917, the Russian Muslim Congress was held at Asadullaev’s House. After the revolution until 1941 at Tatar Domprose (educational house) was established kindergartens. In addition, there were schools, youth associations, orphanages, theaters, as well as various studios.
During the war, Asadullaev served as a hospital and received many patients. Since the mid-20th century, the Tatars of Moscow actively struggled to restore Asadullaev’s House. In 2003, this house have re-building for Muslim decor and oriental interior. Asadullaev also became Tatar House. Now this place attracts the attention of all eastern or oriental culture lovers. Meanwhile, for those who want to learn Arabic and Tatar, you can take the classes for free. Read also Popular Foods in St. Petersburg During Ramadan
3. Moscow Cathedral Mosque
Moscow Cathedral Mosque is the largest mosque in Europe. The capacity of mosque reaches 10000 people. Moscow Cathedral Mosque built in 1904 and have some reconstruction. Cathedral mosque located in the center of Moscow. Naturally the construction requires 170 million dollars. This because of many ornate decorations and high-value architectures such as domes. This mosque pavilion is made of 12 kg of gold. Cathedral Mosque not only has a place of worship, but also has an Islamic museum. Even there are 3 strands of hair Muhammad Prophet at this museum. Beside that, there is a room that displaying photo of First President of Indonesia, Sukarno. He took a picture with Soviet leader Nikita Kruschev with Russian writing under the photo.
4. Yardem Mosque
This mosque became the first house of worship for Muslims in the capital in 90 years. Yardem Mosque sometimes reffered as the “New Jerussalem”. The mosque is able to accommodate as many as 1,200 jemaah.
Architecture of the mosque similar to the style of buildings in Central Asia and Iran. The location of the Yardem Mosque is very interesting because of its location adjacent to the Orthodox Chapel.
In the same area there is a mosque for Shia Muslims, Inam. The mosque built in 1999 was initiated by Azerbaijan’s first president Ayaza Niyazi bin Mutalib.
5. Memorial Mosque, Moscow
In the same year, Russian community opened a new mosque in the hills of Poklonnaya. Important guests from various countries arrive in its opening. Its coincides with the celebration of the 850th anniversary of Moscow. This mosque’scontraction project was head by Ilyas Tazhiev. He is one of the famous architect in Russia.
The exterior design of the mosque combines architectural models from various school buildings of Eastern Muslims, such as Tatar, Uzbek, and Caucasian. Memorial Mosque became one of the most unique architectural ornaments in Moscow. In Ramadan, near from the mosque opened “charity tent” open for breaking the fast.
6. Kremlin
One of the most ancient buildings that reflect the Russian symbol is Kremlin. Kremlin is a Russian state center as a presidential office. You can visit this great building as a tourist destination. Inside the Kremlin buildings, there are various museums to visit, including armory, churches, council assemblies, to ancient archaeological collections. Read also How Russian Celebrate Easter Day in Kremlin
7. Red Square
Red field adjacent to the Kremlin on the west side. The building is composed of a towering red concrete stone with a beautiful architecture. Its representing the symbol of the city of Moscow as the political, historical, economic, and religious center of Russia. This field ia always used to official ceremonies or others important moment.
That’s why Read Square also called Russian field. Every time there is a commemoration of Russia’s triumphant feast or other important event this is where the armored vehicles always start from Red Square. See also Parade of Russia’s Victory Day that held in Red Square too.
8. State History Museum
SHM or the maritime History Museum of the Country has many collections representing every phase in Russian history. There are some performance that often held in this museum. Which showcases the ancient Russia until the 21st century. You must visit this museum if you love Russian history.
9. Gorky Park
Gorky Park location is strategic. Its near the bridge with views of European architectural buildings that located across the river. Gorky Park became one of the favorite pastimes always crowded. There are kiosks, cafes, restaurants, exhibition grounds, sports stadiums and playgrounds. Russian locals love this place for biking, playing skates, or skateboarding. Read also Halal Restaurants in Moscow
10. Metro Moscow
Metro station in Moscow is famous for its architectural style of sculptures, monuments, paintings, mozaic, and other ornaments. Its also touted as the Moscow underground palace. Some of them are protected by the state as an invaluable cultural object. Uniquely, the Moscow metro line map has the most interesting design compared to any metro line map in the world.