For most visitors entering the Maldives, Malé is nothing more than an over-urbanised concrete jungle that is an interim spot before their holiday on a resort island. The Maldives has virtually single-handedly coined the term ‘barefoot luxury’, where the luxury comes from the beauty of nature and minimal architecture. However, the capital city of Malé stands as a juxtaposition of this idyllic image.
Known to some as the ‘Manhattan of the Indian Ocean’, Malé is the world’s most densely populated island. From the sky it bears a close resemblance to Lego Land; buildings with brightly coloured walls stand side by side and rise high into the sky and thing roads weave between them. Nonetheless, this unique urban landscape has an atmosphere that you cannot find anywhere in the world. If you’re staying in a hotel that is in proximity to the capital island, like Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, then you must make it a point to spend a day wandering the streets of Malé.
Here are 3 things to see in the vibrant, thriving, bustling island city of Malé!
Hukuru Miskiy
The Malé Hukuru Miskiy, also known as the Malé Friday Mosque and the Old Friday Mosque is one of the city’s oldest mosques. This magnificent structure dates back to 1656 and has now been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hukuru Miskiy is said to have been built on the land of an ancient mosque, which was erected by the first Muslim Sultan of the Maldives in 1153, making it even holier a site. The structure is built primarily out of coral, had a thatched roof, and interestingly, faced the setting sun rather than the direction of Mecca. The mosque is surrounded by a 17th-century cemetery and as you wander around the premises you can admire the elaborate tombstones of days past.
However, please note that if you are a non-Muslim wishing to enter the mosque you may need to get special permission, but you can still visit the premises and admire its surroundings, as long as you are appropriately dressed.
The National Art Gallery
If you have an appreciation for the arts, then a visit to the National Art Gallery of the Maldives is a must! Established by the Maldivian Government in 1999, the gallery is located at the heart of the city and is the only exhibition space of its kind in the Maldives. The gallery has regular exhibitions showcasing various local artists using different mediums, from photography to more conceptual works. The gallery also has a collection of artefacts which include relics from the archipelago’s pre-Islamic history.
The National Museum
The National Museum of the Maldives should also be another stop on your tour around the city. Located in Sultan Park which was once a part of the site of the 17th century Maldivian royal family, the museum is a few steps away from other cultural sites. Established in the 1950s, the museum houses several relics of the country’s history which range from pre-Islamic Buddhist statues to royal antiquities. Most people do not realise that the Maldives has a rich and multi-cultural history, which is why a visit here will certainly enrich your beach vacation.
A short stroll from the museum is the Islamic Centre, also known as the Grand Friday Mosque, which stands out, with its blindingly white walls and large gold dome. Admire this building where most Malé citizens come for Friday prayers.
Malé is certainly the cultural hub of the Maldives. Do not be fooled by its size, this city is pulsing with history, culture, and energy! A visit to the island is the perfect one-day excursion when you stay at one of the country’s resort islands.
