Russia: an exhibition in Moscow celebrates 1,100 years of Muslim presence

An exhibition dedicated to Russia’s Islamic heritage has opened at Moscow’s Grand Mosque. Entitled “Russia’s Islamic Heritage: Peoples and Traditions,” it highlights more than 1,100 years of Muslim presence in the country. The exhibition presents the history of Islam in Russia, the dissemination of the Koran, calligraphy, decorative arts as well as the traditions of Muslim communities from different regions, including the Volga, the Caucasus and Siberia.

During the inauguration, Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin, president of the Religious Council of Muslims of Russia, recalled the richness and diversity of this heritage, as well as the contribution of Muslims to the culture and history of the country. Several ambassadors from Muslim countries, representatives of Tatarstan as well as Russian political and cultural leaders were present at the opening. The organizers thus wish to raise awareness of the ancient place of Islam in Russian history.

This presence dates back more than a millennium. In 922, Volga Bulgaria, located in the region of present-day Tatarstan, officially adopted Islam. Islam then took lasting root in several regions of present-day Russia, notably around the Volga, in the Urals, the Caucasus and certain parts of Siberia.

Over the centuries, Muslim populations have passed through different periods, from the Russian Empire to the Soviet era. Under Catherine II, at the end of the 18th century, the Russian authorities recognized Muslim institutions more and officially organized their religious representation. Despite restrictions imposed during the Soviet period, Islam remains deeply rooted in many parts of the country. The exhibition will remain open to the public until September 27, 2026. It also coincides with the commemorations of the birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Beyond the cultural event, this exhibition recalls a reality often overlooked in Western Europe: Islam is not a recent phenomenon in Russia.. Present for more than a millennium, it is an integral part of the country’s history and its cultural and religious diversity. This initiative thus contributes to the recognition of a Muslim heritage deeply rooted in Russian society.