Places of Interest in Maldives – Captivating Culture

Housed in one of Male's oldest buildings, the Esjehi Art Gallery can be found near Sultan Park and provides visitors with a chance to see artworks done by locals. A great place to view as well as purchase art, the gallery not only showcases paintings but other creations be it carvings or arts & crafts. Set up to help promote both traditional and modern works of art, the Esjehi Art Gallery is known for hosting workshops too for local artists, giving them the chance to showcase their work.

Referred to by the locals as Hukuru Miskiy, the Old Friday Mosque was constructed in the 17th century and has a rich history. The traditional design elements incorporate intricate woodcarvings and coral carvings, while at the site one will also find a graveyard wherein lies some of the noted nobles and royals of the past.

In Male's Sultan Park you will find the National Museum which in actual fact encompasses two buildings, one of which features the remnants of the Sultan's Palace. This an ideal place to learn more about the country's history and heritage and the ancient artefacts and items which include royal attire, old pictures and weapons all provide a captivating cultural insight.

Bustling with activity, the Fish Market in Male is a great place to visit since it offers a very unique experience. The best time to visit is mid-afternoon when one can see traditional vessels known as dhonis returning with their catch which is predominantly made up of tuna. The fish are then taken to the open-sided market that can be found across the road, where they are displayed and sold amidst a hubbub of bargaining.

Home to the well known Grand Friday Mosque, the Islamic Centre was inaugurated in 1984. Named after local hero, Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, the mosque with its characteristic golden dome, calligraphy in Arabic and ornate woodcarvings is also the largest mosque in the country and can accommodate up to 5,000 people. At the Islamic Centre you will also find a conference hall which is used to host various ceremonies. As with most other places of interest in Maldives, this site is found in Male as well and travellers in search of resorts Maldives has to offer from which to visit the capital can consider staying at Niyama Maldives.