The Maldives are well-known for their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and luxurious resorts, but they also have a rich cultural history that is well worth visiting. Visits to the museums and galleries in the Maldives are among the greatest methods to learn about their history and culture. Here are a few of the best museums and galleries in the Maldives.
National Museum
One of the most significant cultural institutions in the Maldives is the National Museum, which is situated in Male, the country’s capital. It was started in 1952, and in 2010, it moved to its current location. The country’s history, from prehistoric periods to the present, is the main subject of the museum’s exhibitions. You may see artefacts that illustrate the Maldivian way of life, including royal antiques, costumes, and weapons. A stunning example of Maldivian architecture, the museum’s structure has a white exterior and a typical thatched roof.
Maldives Art Gallery
One of the best locations to view contemporary Maldivian art is the Maldives Art Gallery, which is situated on the island of Vaadhoo. The gallery, which opened in 2010, showcases paintings, sculptures, and installations created by regional artists. The gallery offers classes and other activities, making it a fantastic location to discover Maldivian art and culture.
Esjehi Art Gallery
One of the Maldives’s oldest art galleries, the Esjehi Art Gallery is situated in Male. It was founded in 1978 and exhibits works by both regional and international artists. The collection of the gallery consists of sculptures, paintings, and other works of visual art. The Esjehi Art Gallery is an important cultural institution in the Maldives and is a must-visit for art lovers.
Hukuru Miskiy Mosque and Museum
One of the oldest mosques in the Maldives is the Hukuru Miskiy Mosque and Museum, commonly referred to as the Old Friday Mosque, and it is situated in Male. Coral stone was used to construct the mosque, which dates to 1658. Islamic calligraphy and beautiful sculptures embellish the inside of the mosque. The mosque’s museum houses display on the country’s Islamic history, including religious artefacts, manuscripts, and other things.
Mulee Aage Palace
The Mulee Aage Palace in Male is a stunning illustration of colonial design in the Maldives. From 1953 to 2018, the palace, which was erected in 1906, housed the president of the nation. The palace is now accessible to the general public and has exhibitions on the political history of the nation, including images and records from Ibrahim Nasir’s administration as the Maldives’ second president.
Baa Atoll Cultural Centre
The Baa Atoll Cultural Centre, located on the island of Eydhafushi, is an excellent venue to learn about Baa Atoll culture. The centre includes traditional craft, music, and dance exhibits, as well as a library and gift shop. The centre also conducts courses and events, making it a great place to experience Maldivian culture.
Utheemu Ganduvaru
Utheemu Ganduvaru is located on the island of Utheemu in the Maldives’ northernmost region. Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, a national hero who led a resistance against Portuguese colonial rule in the 16th century, lived in the structure. The structure has been repaired and converted into a museum, with displays on the history of the country and the life of Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu.
In conclusion, the Maldives offers a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring, and visiting museums and galleries is a great way to do so. There are many wonderful cultural institutions to discover in the Maldives, from the National Museum in Male to the Maldives Art Gallery on Vaadhoo Island. There is something for everyone in the Maldives’ museums and galleries, whether you are interested in history, art, or religion. So, if you’re thinking about visiting this beautiful country, make sure to include some of these cultural sites on your itinerary.
