Hukuru Miskiyy (مسجد الجمعة القديم في ماليه), Male Atoll Travel Guide

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.