Russian woman’s journey to Islam: She came as a tourist to Antalya, became a Muslim
Born into a Christian family in Russia, Elvira Vilkova felt a void throughout her life. Growing up with an atheist mindset, Vilkova found the peace she sought in Antalya.
- Turkey
- Published Date: 03:20 | 31 March 2025
- Modified Date: 03:21 | 31 March 2025
Visiting Antalya as a tourist a year ago, Vilkova experienced a turning point in her life with a spiritual experience at Şehzade Korkut Mosque. Impressed by the mosque's peaceful atmosphere, Vilkova began researching Islam.
Approaching the Holy Quran without prejudice, Vilkova realized that Islam is not just a religion but also a guide to life. Her bond with Islam strengthened further when the mosque's Imam Muhammet Bey gifted her a Russian Quran.
Feeling an indescribable peace with every rak'ah and every prostration during prayer, Vilkova now begins every task by saying "Bismillahirrahmanirrahim." Each verse of the Holy Quran has become a source of light illuminating her path.
"Finding Islam completely changed my life," says Vilkova, who is now a completely different person.''
This spiritual journey, which began in Antalya, has brought meaning and peace to Vilkova's life.