Asia’s littlest country may also be one of its biggests treasures. Made-up by a coral-reef archipelago in middle of the Indian Ocean, this privileged site gives visitors splendid landscapes, flora and fauna.
Even though the islands are small, they keep a unique biodiversity. This fertile land is perfect for growth and reproduction for exotic and endangered species. That’s why this natural eden makes Maldives Islands a perfect place for the most fantastic Asian legends.
Because of the beauty and location, Maldives Islands have been in dispute between empires for ages. That’s why it is rich in history and traditions as well as in gorgeous places for you to visit.
Staying at the Maldives Islands means you can admire the other side of oriental culture from an occidental influenced perspective. This nation is fairly new compared to other countries, and still, it conserves the respect and love for nature and spirituality.
Now we’ll talk about the 3 most iconic places that make Maldives Islands a really must-see treasure.
The Islamic Centre, Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam
Also known as “The Grand Friday Mosque”, that without a doubt is the most symbolic structure in Maldives Islands because of its beauty and its past. It was built in 1884 in honor to Muhammad Thakurufaanu, an ambientalist and military strategist sultan that ruled in XIV century. This sultan is considered a national hero because he fought the portuguese invasion to the islands.
This magnificent construction has white marble walls and big chandeliers that light the faces of thousands of worshippers, buddhists and tourists everyday. The magnificent golden dome of the mosque is also evident on the skyline of Malé.
The Center’s Grand Friday Mosque, is the biggest in the Maldives, accommodating more than 5,000 worshippers. It is open from 9am to 5pm and has a dress code you must follow: men large pants, women large skirt or dress.
The Sultan’s Gardens
This majestic gardens, filled with flowers and fruit trees, once were part of the Sultan’s Palace that now is the Maldives National Museum.
This gigantic park is considered the nicest place in Malé because it’s a green oasis in middle of the city. The ponds are covered with colorful lilies, the tiny benches and the birds’ songs make this a perfect place for a moment of peace and relaxation.
Tons of people use these gardens for writing, walking, and to admire the landscape. This is a must-see whenever you come to visit the city.
President’s Palace (Muliaage)
Best known as Muliaage, that means “new house of Muli”, is located next to the Sultan’s Palace and was constructed by Muhammad Shamsuddin a sultan that built it to receive his son, the prince Hassan Izzudin, from school.
The Muliaage was occupied by Prince Hassan Izzuddin between 1920 and 1934, a place for merriment and gaiety with numerous music and dance performances. Izzuddin however soon became the victim of a smear campaign organized by his uncle. The palace was abandoned until the end of World War 2, that brought monarchy abolition, becoming the presidential residence.
The building has a kind-of-bungalow look, something really trendy at the beginning of the century in east. Even though it’s not a really big place, its charm is found in the details. Beautiful colors, and the majestic gardens make this place look like something brought from a fairytale.
Maldives Islands are a perfect place for you to try diving. The magnificent coral-reef bay that surrounds the archipelago is home of an immense variety of species.
Also, while you’re on the islands, you can enjoy exclusive and deluxe resorts, most of them with access to the most beautiful beaches. Among the finest complexes in Maldives you may find the Ayada Maldives, Maalifushi and the Four Seasons Resort Maldives
All of the resorts are made-up by gorgeous bungalows in middle of the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, gourmet restaurants and personalized diving services. There’s also the extravagant Cheval Blanc Randheli luxury hotel, property of the deluxe french brand Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy.