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Old National Museum: A Glimpse into Maldivian History

Discover the Maldives' cultural heritage at the Old National Museum in Malé, showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations to the Islamic era.

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The Old National Museum in Malé offers a journey through the Maldives' past, showcasing artifacts from the pre-Islamic era to the rule of Islamic monarchs. Located in Sultan Park, within the former Sultan's Palace grounds, the museum provides insights into the country's rich cultural heritage.

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 both the old and new buildings of the museum, each offering unique insights into Maldivian history.
  • After visiting the museum, take a stroll through Sultan Park, a tranquil green space that was once part of the Sultan's Palace grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old National Museum is located in Sultan Park in central Malé, making it easily accessible on foot from many locations in the city. From the Republic Square, walk east along Medhuziyaarai Magu, then turn right onto Chaandhanee Magu. Sultan Park will be on your left. The museum is located inside the park. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, the nearest bus stop is the Sultan Park Bus Station. From the bus stop, enter Sultan Park and follow the signs to the National Museum. Bus fares within Malé start from MVR 3. Ensure you have local currency for the fare.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Malé. Ask the driver to take you to the National Museum in Sultan Park. Taxi fares in Malé typically range from MVR 15 to MVR 20 per stop. There may be an extra charge of MVR 5 for luggage. It's common to call a taxi center rather than hailing one on the street.

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Discover more about Old National Museum

Housed within the verdant Sultan Park in Malé, the Old National Museum is a repository of Maldivian history and culture. Established in 1952, the museum's collection spans from ancient stone objects to royal antiquities, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of the Maldives' evolution. The museum is divided into two buildings: the original three-story structure and a newer building constructed with assistance from the Chinese government. The older building, part of the 17th-century Royal Palace compound, displays garments worn by royalty, pre-Islamic artifacts, manuscripts, and weaponry. The newer building retains features of the old palace, such as the handwritten Qur'an engraved on its walls, and houses exhibits including legal deeds dating back to the 1600s, the country's first printing press, and artifacts from former temples. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to the medieval and ancient periods, featuring religious paraphernalia, household wares, and engraved wood pieces commemorating the Maldives' conversion to Islam in 1153. The museum also showcases coins, ornaments, costumes, and weapons, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Sultanate era. Despite damage to some pre-Islamic artifacts in 2012, the museum continues to preserve and display the Maldives' historical treasures.

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