THE LARGEST MOSQUE IN TURKMENISTAN

The Largest Mosque in Turkmenistan

The Largest Mosque in Turkmenistan

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The Largest Mosque in Turkmenistan: Gypjak Mosque


Activablog.com - Turkmenistan, a Central Asian nation rich in Islamic heritage, is home to some truly magnificent religious architecture. Among them, the largest and most famous mosque in the country is the Türkmenbaşy Ruhy Mosque, more commonly known as the Gypjak Mosque.



1. Located in the Village of Gypjak




  • The Gypjak Mosque is located just outside Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.




  • It lies in Gypjak, the home village of former President Saparmurat Niyazov.




This mosque holds immense religious and political significance in the country.



2. Impressive Size and Structure




  • The mosque can hold up to 10,000 worshippers at once.




  • Its main dome rises 50 meters high and is flanked by four minarets, each standing 91 meters tall.




  • The number 91 symbolizes the year 1991, when Turkmenistan gained independence from the Soviet Union.




Architectural Style: A blend of Islamic tradition and modern Turkmen design, using white marble and golden domes.



3. Built by the First President




  • Commissioned by Saparmurat Niyazov (Turkmenbashi)




  • Completed in 2004, the mosque also houses the Mausoleum of Turkmenbashi and several of his family members.




Unique Feature: The walls of the mosque are inscribed not only with verses from the Qur’an, but also passages from Niyazov’s book, Ruhnama — a controversial and political text.



4. Controversy and Criticism


Though it is a stunning structure, the mosque has drawn criticism for:





  • Mixing political ideology with religion




  • Placing Ruhnama quotes alongside sacred Qur’anic texts




  • Being more of a national monument than a functional mosque for daily prayers




Still, it stands as a symbol of national pride for many in Turkmenistan.



5. A Must-Visit Cultural Landmark


Today, the Gypjak Mosque is:





  • A major tourist attraction in Turkmenistan




  • Frequently visited for its architectural beauty and grand scale




  • Open for worship, though often quiet outside of Friday prayers




Conclusion


The Gypjak Mosque is not only the largest mosque in Turkmenistan but also one of the most symbolic structures in the nation. Liga788 Combining grandeur, spirituality, and politics, it reflects the unique history and culture of Turkmenistan. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or spiritual traveler, this mosque is a must-see when visiting the heart of Central Asia.

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