The mosque’s architecture is uniquely adapted to Norilsk’s harsh climate. Its domes are sloped to prevent heavy snow accumulation, a necessary feature in this northern city. Instead of a traditional foundation, the mosque is built on piles, similar to most structures in Norilsk, ensuring stability in permafrost conditions.
Designed in the shape of an emerald star, the mosque’s exterior is striking. Each facet is separated by white decorative columns, and the walls feature four distinctive windows—rectangular at the bottom and triangular with a border at the top.
A standout feature is the mosque’s 30-meter minaret. Unlike the typical round minarets found in Islamic architecture, this one is square. This design choice accounts for Norilsk’s extreme cold, strong winds, and frequent heavy snowfalls. The sloping dome and square minaret minimize weather-related challenges while maintaining an elegant aesthetic.
The mosque has two floors. The first floor houses a madrasah for religious education, while the second floor features a spacious, circular prayer hall. The interior is beautifully hand-painted, with walls adorned in bright blue hues. Adding to its grandeur, the domes of both the main building and the minaret are coated in gold, creating a stunning contrast against the city’s snowy landscape.
This combination of functionality and artistic elegance makes the mosque a remarkable architectural and cultural landmark in Norilsk, blending Islamic tradition with practical adaptations for the extreme Arctic environment.
I agree to the terms outlined below:
You agree to upload and assign Mosqpedia Database the rights to use the content worldwide and in perpetuity across all current and future media platforms. Mosqpedia Database may edit, copy, adapt and translate your contribution.
The content will be distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Deed – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International – Creative Commons
All data will be stored in line with data protection regulations.
I agree to the terms outlined below:
You agree to upload and assign Mosqpedia Database the rights to use the content worldwide and in perpetuity across all current and future media platforms. Mosqpedia Database may edit, copy, adapt and translate your contribution.
The content will be distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Deed – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International – Creative Commons
All data will be stored in line with data protection regulations.