Out of the many Maldives tourist places, the Male National Museum stands out as one of the must visit attractions in the island nation. Located in Sultan Park, the National Museum used to be a part of the Sultan’s Palace. In fact, it is a conversion of the old palace building. The museum is home to a fascinating collection of historical items that depict the country’s rich culture and heritage. Staying at a hotel such as Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi is makes it convenient to explore the National Museum in Male as well as many attractions located within and around the main island.
The Maldives National Museum was opened in 19th November 1952. The museum was established with the purpose of invoking patriotic feelings in the Maldivian people and to preserve the islands’ rich history and cultural heritage. The displays are located downstairs in the building which features galleries of Maldivian historical items. There is a wide range of weaponry, religious items and even household items. Quite a few items that commemorate the Islands’ conversion to an Islamic nation in 1153 are also found in the museum. Located upstairs is a display of modern period items such as the lacquer work boxes for which the Maldives is popular. Items such as the first telephone, first gramophone and a giant computer is also put on display.
Within the museum is a fantastic selection of items that once belonged to the Sultans. Among these items are beautiful costumes worn by Maldivian royalty, cloth manuscripts, paper manuscripts, armour, arms, and even stone items from the pre-Islamic period of the Maldives. There is also a great collection of anthropological objects and photographs of significant Maldvian personalities. One can surely learn a great deal about the ancient Maldivian way of life by exploring the collections at the National Museum.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, Joanna James ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought. Her interests include Politics, law and Philosophy. Google+
