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Old National Museum: A Glimpse into Maldivian History

Discover the Maldives' cultural heritage at the Old National Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations to the Sultans' reign.

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The Old National Museum in Malé offers a journey through the Maldives' rich history and cultural heritage. Located in Sultan Park, the museum showcases artifacts from the Buddhist and Islamic eras, royal antiquities, and glimpses into the lives of past sultans and Maldivian people.

A brief summary to Old National Museum

  • 5GH6+365, Malé, Machangolhi, MV

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and have a more comfortable experience exploring the exhibits.
  • Take your time to explore Sultan Park, located next to the museum, for a relaxing break.
  • Check for temporary exhibitions to gain new perspectives on Maldivian history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old National Museum is located in Sultan Park in the center of Malé, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Grand Friday Mosque, walk west along Medhu Ziyaarai Magu, then turn left onto Chaandhanee Magu. Sultan Park and the museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Malé. A short taxi ride to the Old National Museum from any point in the city typically costs around MVR 20-30. Be sure the driver uses the meter or agrees on a fare beforehand.

  • Public Transport

    The Malé bus system, operated by MTCC, has routes throughout the city. Check local bus routes and schedules for the nearest stop to Sultan Park. Bus fares start at MVR 3.

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Discover more about Old National Museum

The Old National Museum, situated in Malé's Sultan Park, provides a captivating insight into the Maldives' past. Established in 1952, the museum's mission is to preserve the nation's history and instill a sense of patriotism. The museum complex comprises two buildings separated by the tranquil Sultan Park, once part of the 17th-century Royal Palace compound. The older building, a three-story structure, houses a collection of objects that once belonged to the Sultans. Here, you'll find royal garments, stone objects from the pre-Islamic period, manuscripts, weaponry and photographs. The newer building, built with assistance from the Chinese government, retains features from the Sultanate era, including a handwritten Qur'an engraved on its walls. It also displays 120 Maldivian legal deeds and official documents dating back to the 1600s, the country's first printing press, and the rifle used by Mohamed Thakurufaanu against the Portuguese in the 16th century. Highlights of the museum's collection include relics from the pre-Islamic era, royal sunshades, furniture, thrones, coins, ornaments, and armor. The ground floor galleries showcase weaponry, household wares and religious items from the medieval and ancient periods. The upper level represents the modern period, featuring lacquer workboxes and early Maldivian technology. While some pre-Islamic artifacts were damaged in 2012, the museum continues to preserve and display significant pieces of Maldivian history. A visit offers a comprehensive understanding of the Maldives' cultural evolution.

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