Restored Apanaev mosque opened in Kazan

Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov took part in opening of Apanaev mosque in Kazan after restoration works.

Apanaev mosque is an early stone Muslim building and an architectural monument of federal significance located in Staro-Tatarskaya sloboda (Kazan, Tatarstan). Construction of the mosque started in 1768 for the funds of a merchant Yakub bin Sultangaly on the basis of personal written statement of the Empress Catherine II. It was named after Apanaev merchants who lived in mahal and maintained the mosque.

After the October revolution of 1917 the mosque was closed and the building was used for different governmental needs. For many years of wrong upkeep the building was destroyed. By the decree of RT Cabinet from September 18, 1995 the object was delivered to the Muslim religious community. The same year after the cosmetic repair services were restarted. The mosque was functioning till 2003 and was closed to implement restoration works.

Since the object is a historical and cultural monument of federal significance it was included in various state programs on preserving historical heritage. Thus, reconstruction works started at the object considered to be an architectural gem of Tatar people.

Apanaev mosque was included in the list of monuments subject to funding by the federal budget. Reconstruction works are now completed.

Officials, members of Tatarstan and Russian Muslim religious organizations, believers and relatives of Apanaev merchants gathered to share common joy today. Imam-khatib of Apanaev mosque Valiulla hazrat Yakupov spoke before attendees of the event.

He thanked everyone for help in organization of works noting that restoration works were being implemented under the auspices of republican and city leadership, and funding was provided by the federal centre. Some residents also helped, their names were put in a book to memorize.