The Hukuru Miskiiy, which translates to ‘Friday Mosque’, is the oldest Maldivian mosque. It was constructed in 1656 under the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar I, and is located in the Maldivian capital of Male. The mosque is an exquisite fusion of Arabic and Maldivian architectural styles. Both the interior and exterior walls are made out of coral stones, and only the finest teak, redwood and red sandalwood have been used to fashion the window frames, doorways and roof. The inside of the mosque is filled with carvings of Arabic calligraphy, and to some extent old Maldivian scripts (Dhives akuru) too. The designs are found everywhere, on the walls, the supporting columns and even the rafters.
The walls are filled with intricate carvings of Arabic letters and patterns (similar carvings can also be found on the headstones in the cemetery that surrounds the Hukuru Miskiiy). The inside is filled with panels containing painstakingly carved Arab scripts that bear testament to the skill of traditional Maldivian craftsmen. Wooden lamps hang from the ceiling, and the mosque is full of detailed lacquer work. The best designs adorn the corners of the mosque. Unfortunately much of the details have become less prominent over time, and some of the colours have faded away. However, what remains is still worth seeing.
There is a beautiful white minaret, the Munnaaru, right next to the site, and this is where the call for prayers is issued. One can find the Medhu Ziyaarath right opposite. This is the shrine of Abu al Barakaath Yusuf al Barbari, a local hero. Non-Muslims who want to visit the Hukuru Miskiiy must obtain permission beforehand. In addition to the Friday Mosque, tourists can take in a number of other historical and cultural sites in Male. These include the Sultan Park and the National Museum, the famed Islamic Centre, the Fish Market and the Tomb of Mohammed Thakurufaanu. As the country’s capital, Male is the most crowded of the Maldivian islands and therefore many tourists prefer staying at a Maldives hotel away from the bustling city. For those looking for quiet and peaceful Maldives Island Resorts but do not want to stray too far from the capital city and all the excitement it offers, Naladhu Maldives is the ideal place to stay at.
