Muslims here may have religious freedom . . .
but economics have prevented them from bonding
together in this sacred social center.
Unfinished mosque in Arkalyk
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Construction of this mosque was begun about seven years ago. The government agreed to the design and construction was begun, but funding proved insufficient after the mosque was approximately 75% completed. The construction company sued to prevent further losses and thereby acquired title to the mosque. The company wants to finish the construction and finally complete its most significant and beautiful project. The company has constructed three other mosques in distant cities, but this was its grandest undertaking. |
| Leaning largely on Uzbekistani materials and artists, the mosque was designed to be a magnificent tribute to Allah. Extremely large, hand carved doors await the chance to be hung, and inside, the beautiful gypsum/alabaster dome longs to be seen. |
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Some of the hand painted work inside the mosque. |
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A deceptively small-looking chandelier against the background of the hand crafted dome. |
| Muslims in the city currently meet in a small, two story concrete building in a decaying region of the city. A picture of this current place of worship is included below. It is a pity that while such a building is practically complete, worshipers continue to meet in this other place. Of course, a building is not necessary for the faith but it adds a significant aspect to ones' spiritual life. |
| If you would be interested in helping finish this place of worship so that the Kazakh people will have a fitting place to practice their traditional religion, please contact Erlan Nurgali at e-mail arkbus@mail.kz |
| A view of the city's only functioning mosque |
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