Do you know that Male is the smallest capital in the world? Despite its small size, it has a treasure trove of untapped potential. In the Maldives, Sultan’s Island, which serves as the country’s economic and political capital and cultural center, should be at the top of your bucket list.
While the Maldivian dynasties have long held the city as a bastion. It also has a significant Islamic legacy, with numerous beautiful mosques and a cultural and religious center. A vacation to Male, despite its small size, is a worthwhile experience.
The National Museum of the Republic of the Maldives
Items of religious and familial significance are also on show at the museum. It was in 1153 that the Maldives became the first country to convert to Islam. This historic event is commemorated on a beautiful panel of carved wood inscribed in Arabic and the local language of Thaana. Take a look at the white coral Buddha’s head; it’s the museum’s most eye-catching piece of artwork. Also on display are ceremonial instruments, models of fishing dhonis, and lacquer artifacts that are typical of Maldivian culture.
Home to both the Grand Mosque of Male and the Islamic Center.
The structure, with its large golden dome, stands out against the surrounding environment as one of the most important Islamic centers in Asia. Additionally, it is the Maldives’ largest mosque. It opened in 1984, and although being funded by the Gulf States, Libya, and the Sultanate of Brunei, it has a contemporary flavor to it. Turkish tiles cover the terrace and the prayer space is furnished with Pakistani hand-knotted carpets and tinsel chandeliers. An auditorium and a library are also part of the vast Islamic complex that houses the headquarters of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
Sultan of park
Visitors to Sultan Park in the Maldives are drawn to the city’s sole major park due to its central location. When the Second Republic of the Maldives was created in 1968, the Sultan’s palace was dismantled. Close to Chandhaneya Majhi is where you’ll find it. One wing remains of the palace at this point. The Sultan Park is an oasis of greenery, with a wide range of plants including water lilies, roses, banyan trees, and orchids. The public garden is serene and offers a variety of resting spots, such as benches and shady spaces. Playing on equipment that is tailored to children’s needs is a lot of fun.
It’s called “Hukuru Miskiyy.”
It is widely regarded as one of the Maldives’ most beautiful structures because of its use of coral blocks in its construction. Malé should be on your list of places to see because it is such an old building. This structure’s inside is adorned with panels of teak and sandalwood. There is no need for joints to hold the coral blocks together because they are intertwined so perfectly. Hukuru Miskiiy, unlike the Grand Mosque, is not directed toward Mecca. The building, which faces east, was erected atop the ruins of a sun temple.
Markets
Participating in the daily routine of the locals is an additional perk of a visit to Male. You can get a taste of the city’s throbbing vibrancy by visiting its many markets. Sellers from all across the country come to the fruit and vegetable market, which is full of people and activity.
Theemuge
Maafannu neighborhood’s old presidential palace, Theemuge, served as President Gayoom’s principal residence from 1998 to 2008. In spite of the fact that he hasn’t been in this role since 2008, this edifice currently houses the Supreme Court of the Maldives. You can learn about many historical figures and events in the country’s political history if you visit Malé.
The exquisite construction of this mansion combines features of both the past and the modern in a large property adorned in white and blue. The island of Theemuge was named after the early Muslim kings of the Maldives. Who ruled during the late Lunar Dynasty.
Wrap-up
When you visit Male, you’ll get to see the real Maldives. Traditional dwellings constructed of coral, modern buildings, and the daily lives of the people who reside there are all depicted in this article. The island’s natural orientation toward the sea has many commercial ports and markets in the northern region. If you’re interested in learning more about the Maldives’ rich culture, history, and cuisine, a visit to the capital city of Male is a great place to begin your research.
Note: If you want to know how you can make the most out of your getaways, make sure you visit Travel Foxx and read our destination guides and travel tips!
TravelFoxx will give you the best tips, advice, and suggestions so you can see more for less. So come, read, learn, and follow the tips and tricks on the road. Our site helped millions of people answer those questions and travel more for less with time-tested and proven tips and advice.