Cheap Car Rentals in Male (MLE)

National Museum

The National Museum was established on the National Day of the Maldives on November 11, 1952. It is the first national museum of the country and is home to a vast collection of historical artifacts that portray the complete historical spectrum of this country. The museum features several artifacts related to the Buddhist era in addition to royal jewelry, thrones, furniture, costumes, coins, and weapons. An impossible to miss attraction here is a 1000-year old coral stone head of Lord Buddha that was brought in from a nearby island of Thoddoo.

Male Hukuru Miskiy (or Male Friday Mosque)

Built in 1658, Male Hukuru Miskiy or the Male Friday Mosque is one of the oldest and most decorated mosques in the Maldives. It is located in the national capital city of Male and is made of corals brought-in from the archipelago. The coral is soft and easy to cut when it is wet but becomes dry once it is dried. This mosque was built over a 12th century mosque that was constructed by the country’s first Muslim ruler and has been in continuous use since it was built.

Theemuge

Theemuge is the site of the former presidential palace of Maldives and currently houses the Supreme Court of Maldives. It is located in Male. It has hosted several events of significant national, political and strategic significance in the country. Theemuge derives its name from the dynasty of the first Muslim rulers of the Maldives, possibly between 1141 and 1388. This palace does not allow public visits and thus can only be seen from the outside.

Mulee'aage

Mulee'aage is the official residence of the President of the Maldives. It is situated in the historic centre of Male near the Friday Mosque and the Grand Minaret of Male. Mulee’aage was built over a five year period from 1914 and 1919. Hundred years ago, this grand building also enclosed Medhu Ziyaarai (or the 'Central Tomb') that used to be the final resting place of Moroccan scholar Abul Barakat Yousef Al-Berberi who is credited to have introduced Islam to the Maldives in 1153. Now the Central Tomb stands as a separate enclave of Mulee'aage but still attracts a large number of visitors.