Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque)

Hukuru Miskiy, or the Old Friday Mosque, is one of the oldest and most venerated mosques in Malé, Maldives. Constructed in 1658 during the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I, it stands as a remarkable example of Maldivian coral stone architecture and intricate craftsmanship. The mosque's location in the heart of Malé underscores its historical importance to the island nation.The mosque was built on the site of an older mosque erected in 1153 by Mohamed Bin Abdullah, the first Muslim Sultan after the conversion of the Maldives to Islam. The coral stone structure features walls adorned with Quranic script and elaborate carvings. The interior showcases fine lacquer work and detailed wood carvings, contributing to its atmosphere of antiquity and spirituality. The building comprises three sections: the Mihuraabuge (Imam's section), the Medhu Miskiy (central area), and the Fahu Miskiy (rear section).The mosque complex includes a unique minaret (Munaaru), constructed in 1675, and a 17th-century graveyard with intricately carved coral tombstones. The tombstones' designs indicate the rank and profession of the deceased, with rounded tops for women's graves and pointed tops for men's. Gilded inscriptions denote royalty. The mosque also features coral stone wells used for ablution before prayers.Hukuru Miskiy was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2008, recognizing its unique sea-culture architecture and the creative excellence of Maldivian artisans. The mosque remains an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark, attracting visitors interested in Maldivian history and Islamic architecture. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove shoes before entering the mosque.