Overview:

Molla Yusup Mosque - Kerki in Turkmenistan is an important place of worship and pilgrimage for Muslims in the country. The mosque was first constructed in the 15th century and is one of the oldest mosques in the country. It is situated near the village of Kerki, in the Ahal Province. The mosque is cylindrical in shape and has an area of 13 square meters. Inside, the mosque features an impressive array of stone pillars, arches, and colored tiles. It is decorated with intricate Islamic designs and has a large courtyard. The mausoleum of Molla Yusup, the founder of the mosque, is located near the entrance of the mosque. Every year, many pilgrims come to the mosque to seek spiritual blessings and offer prayers. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkmenistan
Prominent Features:

The Molla Yusup Mosque is a historical mosque located in the city of Kerki, Turkmenistan. The mosque was built in the 18th century and is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The mosque was historically an important place of worship for the local Muslim population and has remained an important site to the region's Islamic community until today. The Molla Yusup Mosque is a two-storied building decorated with beautiful blue tiles and an impressive entrance gate built in the late 19th century. The interior of the mosque is quite splendid with a large and finely tiled dome, numerous arches, and tall minarets rising out of the entrance. The austere atmosphere of the mosque is further enhanced by the Islamic inscriptions covering the walls in ornamental Arabic script. The Molla Yusup Mosque also includes a library, a women's gallery, and a traditionally decorated mihrab (prayer niche) facing Mecca. This national monument of Turkmenistan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Molla Yusup Mosque, also known as Molla Yousoup Mosque, was built in 1714 in the city of Kerki, situated in eastern Turkmenistan. The mosque complex was erected by Molla Yusup, a renowned Sufi scholar, who was born in 1602 in the nearby city of Atamyrat. The mosque stands as a testament to his influence and legacy in the region. The mosque premises includes the central mosque building, madrasa, hujra, a cemetery, bathhouse, kitchen, and a ziyaratkhana (sanctuary). The central mosque building is a single-storied structure made of clay and brick, with wooden beams providing support. The interior is composed of decorative columns. The mosques of Bukhara, Samarkand and other cities have traditionally served as important venues for religious, cultural and educational activities. Similarly, Molla Yusup Mosque has served as the site for Islamic studies and mystical meetings. The mosque is built in the traditional Turkmen style, and features intricate traditional Arabesque designs, with texts written as inscriptions carved in glazed bricks of impressive design. Inside the structure, one can find a variety of decorations, including several verses from the Quran and Hadiths, as well as the names of Molla Yusup and his ancestral lineage. Currently, the mosque is operational and continues to welcome guest from all over the world. Despite a number of restorations, it retains its charm as an important icon in the religious history of Turkmenistan. You must visit one of these historical places in Turkmenistan on your Turkmenistan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Molla Yousup Mosque is the oldest surviving mosque in Central Asia, and the second oldest mosque in Turkmenistan. 2. It was built in the 8th century, making it one of the oldest surviving Islamic monuments in the world. 3. The mosque was built by Molla Yusup, a local ruler of the region, who was regarded as a great religious scholar in his own right. 4. The mosque is situated in the center of the city of Kerki and is a major sightseeing attraction for visitors. 5. The mosque is constructed with a traditional four-iwan architectural style and is made up of limestone and clay. 6. The mosque has a wooden ceiling made of lime, ash, and red chalk. 7. Its walls are adorned with geometric and floral designs as well as inscriptions from the Quran. 8. The Molla Yousup Mosque is now a national monument and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkmenistan with your friends and family.