Malé City

Malé City

Male’ is the capital city of the Maldives and the seat of the executive, legislature and judicial branches of the government of the Maldives. Male’ is also the financial and commercial capital of the country. Accordingly major government offices, banks and businesses are based on Male’.

Male’ city is one of the most densely populated cities of the world. Administratively neighbouring islands of Villingili and Hulhumale’ are considered as constituencies of Male’ City. Hulhumale’ is an artificially reclaimed island.

Access and accommodations

You can reach the bustling capital of the Maldives via ferry boats operated round the clock between the airport island Hulhule’ and Male’ City.

There are luxury and budget hotels offering accommodation in the capital. Numerous classy guest houses have also opened up in neighbouring Hulhumale’ and Villingili islands reachable through ferry boats and speed launch transfers.

Attractions

Republic Square

Once you reach Male’ you will be greeted by a giant flag located in the Republic Square proudly displaying the national colours of the Maldives. This square has a small park where locals and visitors hang-out. The Republic Square is found close to the north shore of Male’.

Right next to the Republic Square you will find the Headquarters of the Maldivian National Defence Force and Maldivian Police Service. The Islamic Centre is also found next to the square.

Islamic Centre

The Islamic Centre opened in 1984, is a popular attraction for tourists. The Islamic Centre is known for excellent architecture fused with traditional Maldivian and Islamic concepts. The magnificent golden domes of the Centre ornament the skyline of Male’. The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate wood carvings and Arabic calligraphy.

The building houses the largest mosque in the Maldives named after the national hero of the country Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam. It also has a large conference hall, numerous offices and an Islamic library.

Friday Mosque

The Friday Mosque is a testament to Maldivian craftsmanship. The mosque was originally built in 1658. The Friday Mosque was mainly built using coral stones. These coral stones display elaborate stone carvings. This historic building preserves to this day traditional Maldivian art forms like wood carvings and lacquer works.

A coral stone minaret is located next to the mosque building. This minaret was previously the tallest minaret in the Maldives. A 17th century cemetery surrounds the Friday Mosque. Gravestones in this cemetery display intricate stone carving. The Friday Mosque is included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Medhu Ziyaarai Shrine

This shrine is found a few steps away from the Friday Mosque. According to local legend, this shrine is the final resting place of the Moroccan Islamic scholar who is credited with introducing Islam to the nation. The name of the scholar is Abul Barakaath Yoosuf al Barbaree.

Sultan Park

Sultan Park is located in front of the Republican Monument unveiled to mark 30 years of independence. The Sultan Park is the best public spot in Male’. Large trees and colourful flowers create a welcoming feel. Previously the Sultan Park site housed Maldivian Royal Palaces.

National Museum

The National Museum was first opened in 1952. However, the place underwent a major revamping process and a brand new National Museum was opened in 2010. The museum preserves a wealthy collection of items.

Artefacts and relics from pre- Islamic period to post Islamic period are displayed here. Regal dresses and items associated with Maldivian royalty can be explored. A rich collection depicting Maldivian craftsmanship and artistry is also displayed. You will even have the chance to discover moon rocks in the museum.

Tsunami Monument

The Tsunami Monument is located in the southeast corner of Male’. This monument commiserates the devastation caused to the Maldives by the 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami. Many lives were lost and inhabited islands were decimated that day. The stainless steel structure has round circles representing the number of the people killed during the Tsunami.

The Tsunami Monument is located next to the most popular surfing area of Male’. There are many parks and street vendors around the area.

A visit to the Maldives is not complete without visiting the epicentre of the country. Indulge in shopping in various markets and shops spread across Male’. Feast from excellent restaurants and cafes offering international and local cuisine.

People


Maldivians are esteemed around the World for their hospitality and affability towards their guests. Currently the population of the Maldives is 341,256. Additionally close to 60000 registered foreigners reside in the country.

Maldivians share a similar cultural heritage, history, ancestry, homeland, language and religion. These common factors are the reason for the unity and harmony prevailing in the alluring islands.

Maldivian ancestral roots can be traced back to Sinhala’s of Sri Lanka, Marathi’s and Guajarati’s of India, Arabs, Malays and Northern African dispositions. Accordingly, Maldivians emerged from a mixed race, which has enriched the culture and history of the country.

Presently Maldivians are adherents of the Sunni School of Islam. Maldivians embraced Islam in 1153 AD and since then the religion has played a key role in shaping the Maldivian society. Some of the famous landmarks in the country have been greatly influenced by Islamic architecture.

Before converting to Islam, the Maldivians were known to practice Buddhism and ancient paganism. Ancient Buddhist ruins are preserved in the country and antique Buddhist artefacts are displayed in the National Museum in Male’.

Traditionally whenever guests visit a local island, the islanders will welcome them by serving a fresh coconut drink. This tradition has continued to this day and do not be surprised if your resort offers a beautifully decorated coconut drink when you reach your destination!