Made up of nearly 1120 islets, the island archipelago of Maldives is a sandy beached haven renowned for its coral reefs, natural wonders and sundrenched vistas over emerald oceans. Enjoying an unparalleled popularity among divers and honeymooners in search of a private getaway, the small island nation six feet above sea level is also a cultural melting pot waiting to be discovered. But of all of the country’s cultural attributes, no locale dominates the tourist itineraries and the azure skyline quite like the stunning Grand Friday Mosque. Also known as Masjid-al Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu-al-A’z’am or the Huskuru Miskyii, the Grand Friday Mosque is the country’s largest and most unique religious landmark frequented by many a visitor to this captivating island.
Towering over the city with its iconic golden dome and accompanying minarets, this monumental mosque also played host to the SAARC General Meeting and other international events in the past. With the capacity to accommodate five thousand worshipers at any given time, the structure is by far the most expansive mosque complex in the country. Home to an Islamic centre, the mosque was originally built by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar as far back as 1656 now entombs several members of the royal family within the structure. The mosque is also the burial place of a number of national heroes in the Maldives making it not only a symbol of the country’s religious identity but the historic figures that shaped its future as well. Open to the public everyday between 9am and 5pm, the highlights of a visit to the mosque lie in its splendid architecture and stunning art work. The royal burial chambers contain some of the finest artistic creations in the structure while mesmerizing coral engravings are also found within the venue.
The main hall at the Grand Friday Mosque also contains breathtaking wooden side panels carved to perfection in addition to beautifully woven carpets. Amazing chandeliers are also found on-site which has been richly but discreetly decorated to reflect the cultural and religious identity of the locale.
Travellers in search of a luxury Maldives island resort that epitomizes the elegance and natural splendour of this island nation need not look any further than the stylish Kurumba Maldives. Dotted with crystal blue pools, lagoons, pavilions and white powdered beaches, this charming rest is one of the best Maldives resorts in the archipelago.
