Maldives is famous around the world for its breathtaking beaches, but this paradise nation also has a wide range of heritage sites that are remarkable just as well. One of these is the Old Friday Mosque.
Where is it?
The mosque is located in the capital city of Malé right next to the Muliaage and the Medhuziyaaraiy. If you’re staying a luxury Maldives beach resort you’ll need to get here via a speedboat but that’s not to worry as most places like Dhigali Maldives organize Malé city tours that includes a visit to this mosque.
How Old Is It?
Built in 1658, under the rule of Ibrahim Iskandar, the Old Friday Mosque is the oldest mosque in the country. It’s said to be built over an ancient temple.
High in Importance
In 2008, the mosque was added to UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage Sites. Considered to be the most ornate mosque in the nation, the Old Friday Mosque features intricate carvings on coral stone.
Know Before You Go
The mosque is a site of much reverence and therefore it’s a must to be dressed in modest clothing when visiting it as you will not be granted entry otherwise.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+