Presenting a panoramic landscape that is as close to paradise on earth as it gets, the Maldives enjoys a stellar reputation as one of the most ideal tropical getaways in the world. With pristine diamond beaches speckled with jade-green palms and framed by the sparkling sapphire waters of the Indian Ocean, this bejewelled landscape is ripe for exploration. It is also a fabulous cultural enclave, and as its state religion is the practice of Islam, its primary bastion of worship, the Maldives Grand Friday Mosque presents a splendid glimpse into the country’s practice of spirituality.
Also known as the Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, the Grand Friday Mosque is situated in the city of Male, the Maldivian capital, and is one of the largest mosques constructed in South Asia, with an admission capacity of around 5,000 devotees. It is named after the famous hero of the Maldives, Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu Al Auzam, who is credited with liberating the people of the Maldives from the Portuguese for about 15 years after slaughtering the sultan of the time.
Along with its religious importance, the Grand Friday Mosque is widely appreciated for its unique and elegant architecture. Every engraving has a different story to tell and the resplendent golden dome stands tall as the proud symbol of this magnificent edifice. It was initially built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskhandhar and the artwork of the Grand Friday Mosque presents a stunning spectacle that absolutely must be witnessed, if only once in a lifetime. Featuring gorgeous coral engravings and intricate detailing that will leave you speechless, the walls of the mosque are adorned with beautiful Arabic calligraphy and woodcarvings which coalesce to form an awe-inspiring visual to please the appreciative eye. Observe the one-of-a-kind minarets and observe a glimpse of history through the tombs of national heroes and members of royalty.
The Grand Friday Mosque also includes the Islamic Centre, a renowned architectural landmark in the city that serves as a host for important official meetings, and where ceremonies are observed with all formalities. International level conferences and seminars such as the SAARC General Meeting have also taken place at this well-equipped centre. A championing emblem of the Maldives, the Grand Friday Mosque represents the rich heritage of this island and sets it apart from the rest – a distinction in its own form.
After an exhilarating experience at the Grand Friday Mosque, return to a luxurious offering of accommodation in Maldives which features stylish villas lingering on the waters, such as those that can be found at the Anantara Dhigu Maldives. The attentive hospitality and elegant interiors make it a select choice of all the Maldives resorts available to host your stay in this famous tropical locale.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+
