Mosques in Astana
Hazret Sultan Mosque
Hazret Sultan is Astana’s main cathedral mosque and one of the largest in Central Asia. According to legend, the name “Hazret Sultan” (“Most Holy Sultan”) was given in honor of the Sufi sheikh Khoja Ahmed Yassawi—a 12th-century poet and philosopher revered as a Muslim saint.
Construction began in June 2009, and the mosque was inaugurated on July 6, 2012. The prayer hall can accommodate 10,000 people, and four 77-meter-tall minarets rise at the corners of the building.
How to Get There
The mosque is located on the left bank of the Esil River, in the Esil district, not far from the central avenues. You can get there by bus or taxi; the Palace of Peace and Harmony and the riverfront promenade are nearby.
Orthodox Churches
The Cathedral of the Dormition
The largest Orthodox church in the country and in Central Asia. The cornerstone was laid in 2006, and in 2010, the cathedral was consecrated by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia. The interior can accommodate 4,000 worshippers.
How to Get There
The cathedral is located on the right bank of the city; it is easily accessible by city bus or taxi—look for the Saryarka district as a landmark.
St. Constantine and St. Helen Cathedral
The oldest of the capital’s active Orthodox churches—it predates the city’s status as the capital of Kazakhstan and has remained a historic focal point for the city’s Orthodox community.
How to Get There
Located in the historic part of the city; it’s easiest to get there by taxi, as it’s off the beaten path from the main tourist routes.
Churches of Other Denominations
Astana is also home to Catholic and Protestant churches that serve the city’s respective communities. These places of worship are less geared toward tourists and primarily serve as parish churches, so it’s best to plan a visit in advance by checking the schedule of services.
How to Conduct Yourself During Your Visit
Admission to the Hazret Sultan Mosque and the Cathedral of the Assumption is free, but general rules typical of religious sites apply:
- Clothing must cover the shoulders and knees; women must wear a headscarf inside the mosque (often provided at the entrance).
- Visitors without religious intentions usually do not enter the mosque during prayer times—it is best to visit between prayer sessions.
- It is customary to remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
- Photographing the interior is generally permitted, but without a flash and without taking close-up shots of people praying—this applies to both mosques.
- Loud conversations and eating inside are not permitted in either place of worship.
FAQ
How much is admission to the Hazret Sultan Mosque and the Cathedral of the Dormition?
Admission is free at both sites.
Do I need to wear a headscarf in the mosque?
Yes, women must cover their heads; headscarves are usually available at the entrance.
Is photography allowed inside the places of worship?
Generally, yes, but without a flash and without photographing people who are praying.
How much time should I allow for a visit to the Hazret Sultan Mosque?
It takes 30–60 minutes to tour the interior and grounds.
Which church is the oldest in Astana?
The Constantine and Helen Cathedral is considered the oldest active Orthodox church in the city.
