Before it became one of the smallest republics in the world in 1936, Maldives was an Islamic sultanate of the orient. The archipelago was ruled by a hereditary Muslim ruler; the Sultan, and the remnants of the rule of the sultans can even be seen today when you visit the islands. One of the most interesting and well preserved of these is the Mulee Aage Palace; which is a grand villa of breathtaking beauty and architectural allure.
The Mulee Aage Palace is quite easy to find, as it is one of the most visited places of interest in the Maldivian archipelago. This sprawling tropical villa is located quite close to the famous old Friday Mosque of Male, the Huruku Misky. The palace was commissioned by Sultan Mohamed Samsudeen for his son, the crown prince Hassan Izzuddin, in 1906. After the reign of the Sultans ended, the palace enjoyed a brief stint as the presidential palace in 1953. With a new official residence being constructed later for the president, the Mulee Aage palace was conserved and opened for the public as a beloved remnant of an age gone by.
Today, this hundred year old mansion stands as a fine example of a style of architecture that nearly disappeared from the Maldives is the wake of modernity. While its ornate facades and decorative timber reminds somewhat of the grand architecture style used in contemporary mansions in south India and Sri Lanka, the Mulee Aage Palace presents itself as a unique building that was built on reasons and traditions inherent to the Maldives. However as the architectural characteristics suggest, it’s interesting to note that the building was designed by a Sri Lankan designer and almost all the material used in its construction was imported from India and Sri Lanka. Due to its carefully preserved condition, it can be said that the Mulee Aage Palace is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience a glimpse of the grandeur of days of the Sultanate of Maldives.
It’s quite easy to get to the palace by a dhoni boat ride from any Maldives island resort you are staying at. Great offers on Maldives bungalows at resorts like Anantara Veli, Maldives are available most of the time throughout the year, so finding good accommodation is not really an issue while you’re exploring the archipelago and its wonders.
