Spectacular beaches, crystal-clear turquoise seas, swaying palm trees and year-round sunshine, are what makes the Maldives a dream holiday destination. Synonymous with romance, luxury and serenity, the natural beauty of the Maldivian atolls is what draws visitors from all over the world, who come to seek tranquility at the luxurious resorts that dot the islands, like the Adaaran Select Meedhupparu.
Do make time to explore the many islands while you are there, and get a closer look at the rich cultural history of the country. If you’re not sure what to do in the Maldives, first, head over to capital Male and see the lively markets, museums and of course, the striking Friday mosque. The oldest and ornate mosque in the Maldives, dating back to 1656, the building is constructed from blocks of coral stone with intricate embellishment and Quranic script chiseled into it.
Coral stone was used for the construction of the mosque because of its pliability and durability. Although soft and easy to cut and shape when wet, the coral makes sturdy blocks when dried out. Due to its distinctive build, the mosque was added to the tentative UNESCO World Heritage cultural list as a model for sea-culture architecture. Adjacent to the mosque is a round, blue-and-white minaret which can be traced back to 1675 and nearby is a cemetery with numerous ornately carved tombstones.
Although a rather unsightly protective corrugated-iron sheet covers the roof and most of the walls, it’s still a fascinating place to visit. The interior is marvelous and celebrated for its detailed lacquer work and wood carvings. One panel in particular, which was carved during the 13th century, honors the introduction of Islam as a religion to the Maldives. To see inside, you need to get approval from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to enter, but, if you are respectful and dressed well, an official will usually grant permission straight away without a fuss.
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+
