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Hukuru Miskiyy: A Coral Stone Marvel

Discover Malé's oldest mosque, a stunning coral stone structure with intricate carvings and a rich history dating back to 1658.

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Hukuru Miskiyy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque, is Malé's oldest mosque, dating back to 1658. Built from coral stone, it showcases intricate carvings and traditional Maldivian craftsmanship. The mosque complex includes a minaret and a cemetery with unique coral stone tombstones.

A brief summary to Hukuru Miskiyy (مسجد الجمعة القديم في ماليه)

  • 5GH6+5XC, Lonuziyaarai Magu, Malé, Henveiru, MV
  • +960302-0200

Local tips

  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as Hukuru Miskiyy is an active place of worship.
  • Visit during non-prayer times to fully appreciate the architecture and peaceful ambiance.
  • Check with local authorities regarding permission for non-Muslims to enter.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate wood carvings and coral stone work.
  • Explore the surrounding cemetery to see the uniquely carved coral stone tombstones.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Hukuru Miskiyy is centrally located in Malé and easily accessible on foot from many points in the city. From the National Museum, head south on Chaandhanee Magu until you reach Lonuziyaarai Magu. Turn right, and the mosque will be on your left. Walking is free and allows you to explore the surrounding area.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malé. A short taxi ride to Hukuru Miskiyy from any point in the city typically costs around MVR 25, with an additional MVR 25 per kilometer. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ride-hailing apps are also available.

  • Public Transport

    The public bus system in Malé is operated by MTCC and has 13 routes. While buses are available, the city is small enough that walking or taking a taxi might be more convenient for tourists. Bus fares start at MVR 3.

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Discover more about Hukuru Miskiyy (مسجد الجمعة القديم في ماليه)

Hukuru Miskiyy, or the Old Friday Mosque, stands as a testament to the Maldives' rich Islamic heritage and architectural prowess. Constructed in 1658 during the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I, it is built on the site of an earlier mosque established in 1153 by the first Muslim Sultan of the Maldives. The mosque is renowned for its unique coral stone construction, intricate carvings, and the seamless interlocking technique used to assemble its structure. The mosque's architecture reflects a fusion of Indian Ocean seaborne cultures and Maldivian artistry. The exterior and interior walls are adorned with Arabic calligraphy and ornamental patterns. The complex comprises a main prayer hall, a courtyard, and a 17th-century cemetery. The cemetery features intricately carved tombstones, with rounded tops marking women's graves and pointed tops indicating men's. Gilded inscriptions denote royalty. The minaret, built in 1675, stands adjacent to the mosque and is an important tourist attraction. Its design, made from plastered coral stone with calligraphic adornments, has been likened to a wedding cake. Inside the mosque, the prayer hall is decorated with burgundy carpets, and the wooden minbar and coral mihrab showcase traditional Maldivian craftsmanship. Hukuru Miskiyy was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Visitors are welcome to explore this historical and cultural landmark, but are advised to dress modestly and respect local customs. Special permission from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs may be required for non-Muslims to enter the mosque.

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