The capital city of The Maldives, Male, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. While it might be a scary thought, transitting through the city is a golden opportunity to explore the essence of what the country is. With numerous cafes, restaurants, and attractions, Male is the setting stone into the life of a typical Maldivian and the culture.

The best part is that, due to its small size (3.2 square kilometers), one can walk around the city in about an hour or two.

Starting strong with the historical and cultural monuments, all within a stone’s throw are:

1. Muleeaage (Official residence of the president of The Maldives).

Source: Captain Martini, Flickr, https://www.flickr.com/photos/captainmartini/25404230342/in/photostream/

Built between 1914 to 1919, Muleeaage is the president’s official residence. Though never serving as a Royal Palace, the site is the ancestral home of former Sultans and Royalty. Sultan Shamsuddeen III, who built it for his son, Prince Hassan Izzuddeen, who lived there from 1920 until 1934, is among them.

Under former President Gayyoom’s rule, the Palace also served as the president’s office and the Supreme Court.

Famous guests at the Palace include Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1972 and Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi of India.

 

2. Rasrani Bageecha (Sultan Park).

Source: Olivia Persson, Atoll Tales, https://atolltales.com/3-greenest-parks-in-male-city/

Formerly known as Sultan Park, Rasrani Bageecha translates to the King and Queens Gardens. A suitable moniker, as the site had been used by the rulers of The Maldives for more than 800 years, making it one of the most ancient grounds as well.

In 2017, the park was renovated and fashioned after traditional Maldivian architecture. The park is an entertainment and heritage site with over 18,000 trees, a 12ft glass tree house, a water fountain, children’s play corners, and much more.

While here, if you are a history fan, walk over to the National Museum housed within the park. Established in 1952, the interior has been preserved from the Sultanate era and has an extensive collection of historical relics.

 

3. Victory Monument.

Source: aviatorphotography, https://www.officeholidays.com/holidays/maldives/maldives-victory-day

Take a quick route down Medhuziyaraaih Magu and make your way to see the Victory Monument. Painted in angelic white, featuring green and red, it commemorates the remarkable triumph of Maldivian forces over the Tamil Tigers in the militant organization. The hues signify the invasion, The Maldives, and the blood of the fallen soldiers, respectively.

 

4. Republic Square and Presidential Jetty.

Source: m01229, Flickr, https://www.flickr.com/photos/39908901@N06/50914659253/sizes/l/

The republic square, built in 1989, is an iconic emblem of the Maldives and a source of pride for the country’s residents. The sizeable national flag can also be found here, dancing in the breeze. It is a picturesque and content time, especially in the evening, with dozens of pigeons and children playing around.

 

5. Presidential Jetty

The presidential jetty is seen in all its splendor with a glance around. With the design of three sails on a traditional boat, this is a hard-to-miss sight for those Instagram drool-worthy images.

 

6. Hukuru Miskih.

The mosque, built in 1658, is one of Male’s oldest structures, featuring interlocking coral blocks and intricate coral carvings. Traditional wood carvings and lacquer work adorn the interior.

The mosque was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 for its unique sea-culture architecture and is of great cultural and historical significance to the Maldives.

Another historical location, ‘Medhu Ziyaarath,’ the shrine of Abu al Barakat Yusuf Al Barbari, can be seen right in front of the mosque.

 

 

7. Grand Friday Mosque.

Another mosque not to be missed is the Grand Friday mosque, built in 1984 and the second largest in The Maldives. The edifice, with its huge golden dome and 142-foot-tall minaret, was designed by a collaboration of Maldivian architects and engineers combining traditional Islamic architectural motifs and local materials.

The mosque, officially titled Masjid Al Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu Al Auzan after one of Maldives’ most recognized heroes, can accommodate over 5,000 people.

 

8. Walk along Boduthakurufaan Magu.

It is inevitable to watch the activity of the locals while strolling along Boduthakurufaanu Magu, which encircles the city. The local fish and fresh markets are located here too, where local produce is replenished. Moreover, one can find varieties of local delicacies and snacks at the market at affordable prices that can be taken back as gifts or even an inflight snack.

Fisherman’s Park is also nearby and is one of the best places to watch the sunset.

 

9. Visit the largest garden park in The Maldives: Lonuziyaaraiy Park.

Lonuziyaarai Bageecha is currently the largest garden park in the Maldives, equipped with soundproof systems that drown out the traffic noises from outside.

 

10. Visit the oldest restaurant in Male’ City.

A stroll along Chaandhanee Magu and the plethora of gift shops lining each side is the best way to end the day. And with the increased appetite built from the walk, make your way to Symphony Restaurant. First opening its doors in 1992, it is the city’s oldest restaurant and a favorite among locals and visitors.

Male’s city might be different from everyone’s cup of tea, especially after a relaxing vacation at a beach or upscale resort. But for the locals, it is a veritable paradise and the center of everything Maldivian. Because no matter how far one travels, home always proves ideal.