Historical sites to visit in the Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. It is a very popular tourist destination offering an exotic island experience to travellers, with the best luxury resorts in Maldives offering all-inclusive holidays in Maldives that include accommodation, dining, snacks and activities, to pristine beaches, adventure activities and so much more.

The country has a long and interesting history, which has impacted almost every aspect of it. Here's a brief history of the Maldives:

Ancient Period:

·      The earliest settlers of the Maldives were believed to be from southern India and Sri Lanka, with the first known human settlements dating back to around 1500 BCE.

·      The country came under the influence of various regional powers, including the Mauryan Empire of India and later the Chola Dynasty of South India.

Islamic Influence and Sultanate Era:

·      In the 12th century, Islam was introduced to the Maldives, reportedly by Arab traders and Sufi missionaries. The country converted to Islam, and it has remained the official religion ever since.

·      It saw the establishment of a sultanate system around the 12th century, with a succession of sultans ruling over the islands.

·      Over the centuries, the island has maintained trade relations with various maritime powers, including the Arab world, India, and Southeast Asia.

Colonial Period:

·      The country came under colonial influence during the 16th century when the Portuguese invaded the islands in 1558. The Portuguese rule was short-lived, lasting only until 1573 when they were expelled by a local uprising.

·      After the Portuguese, the Dutch gained influence in the region and established a trading relationship with the Maldives. However, they never established direct control over the islands.

·      In the late 18th century, it sought protection from the expanding British Empire and signed a series of agreements that made the Maldives a British protectorate, maintaining internal autonomy while accepting British influence in foreign affairs.

Independence and Modern Era:

·      The country gained full independence from Britain on July 26, 1965, becoming a republic.

·      In 1978, it adopted a new constitution, establishing a presidential system of government.

·      From 1978 to 2008, the Maldives was ruled by President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who held power for three decades.

·      In 2008, the Maldives held its first multi-party presidential elections, and Mohamed Nasheed became the country's first democratically elected president.

·      In 2012, President Nasheed resigned amid political unrest, and Vice President Mohammed Waheed Hassan assumed office.

·      In the subsequent elections of 2013, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, the half-brother of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, was elected president.

·      In the 2018 elections, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the candidate of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), defeated incumbent President Yameen and became the current president.

What are the historical sites tourists can visit while in the Maldives?

As a travel destination, the Maldives offers stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. While it does not have an extensive collection of historical sites like some other countries, there are a few places of historical and cultural significance that tourists can visit. Here are some notable historical sites to visit:

·      Male Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy): Located in the capital city of Male, the Friday Mosque is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in the Maldives. It dates back to the 17th century and features intricate coral stone architecture and beautiful wood carvings.

·      Old Friday Mosque (Old Hukuru Miskiy): Situated on the island of Utheemu in Haa Alif Atoll, this mosque is associated with the historical figure Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu, who is celebrated for his efforts to liberate the Maldives from Portuguese rule in the 16th century.

·      Malé's Historic Quarter: Explore the narrow streets and colourful buildings in Malé's historic quarter. Here, you can visit landmarks such as the Presidential Palace, the Mulee-aage Palace, and the Maldives National Museum, which houses various artefacts and exhibits showcasing the country's history and culture.

·      Utheemu Ganduvaru: Located on the island of Utheemu, this historic wooden palace was the childhood home of Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu. It offers insights into the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the Maldivian royal family.

·      Hulhulé Island: Adjacent to the Malé International Airport, Hulhulé Island is home to the Hulhulé Island Hotel, a historic building constructed during World War II. It served as a British RAF base and later as a seaplane base.

·      Gan Island: Gan Island, part of the Addu Atoll, has historical significance as a former British Royal Air Force base. Visitors can explore remnants of the military infrastructure, including the British-era buildings and the impressive Gan International Airport.

Aside from these specific historical sites, exploring local island communities can provide glimpses of traditional Maldivian culture, with local markets, mosques, and traditional houses contributing to the overall cultural experience. Of course, the Maldives is renowned for its luxurious resorts, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and engage in various water activities like snorkelling, diving, and leisurely beach relaxation.

How can you arrange a historical tour of the Maldives while vacationing there?

Arranging a historical tour of the Maldives while vacationing there can be an exciting way to explore the country's cultural heritage. Here are some steps to help you organise a historical tour:

·      Research: Begin by researching the historical sites and landmarks you wish to visit in the Maldives. Identify the specific locations, their historical significance, and any additional information that might enhance your understanding and appreciation of the sites.

·      Plan Your Itinerary: Determine the duration of your historical tour and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider the distance between sites and factor in travel time, as well as the availability of transportation options such as ferries or domestic flights.

·      Seek Local Guidance: Engage with local tour operators or travel agencies that specialise in historical tours or have expertise in organising cultural excursions. They can help you with logistics, provide guides who are knowledgeable about the history of the Maldives, and ensure a smooth experience.

·      Visit Malé: Begin your historical tour in the capital city of Malé, where you can explore the Old Friday Mosque (Old Hukuru Miskiy), the Maldives National Museum, and other historical landmarks within the city. The Maldivian Tourism website or local tourist information centres can provide detailed information about these sites.

·      Island Hopping: Consider including visits to other islands that house historical sites. For example, you can travel to Utheemu Island in Haa Alif Atoll to see Utheemu Ganduvaru, the former residence of Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu. Gan Island in Addu Atoll is another option, where you can explore remnants of the British-era RAF base.

·      Cultural Immersion: To gain a deeper understanding of Maldivian culture, interact with the locals, visit local markets, and experience traditional activities such as attending a boduberu performance or trying authentic Maldivian cuisine.

·      Arrange Guided Tours: Hire knowledgeable local guides who can provide historical context and insights during your visits to different sites. They can share stories, legends, and anecdotes associated with each location, enriching your overall experience.

·      Respect Local Customs: Remember to be respectful of local customs and religious practices. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites, and follow any instructions provided by the guides or locals.

·      Capture Memories: Carry a camera or smartphone to capture photographs and videos of the historical sites and moments during your tour.