The capital of the Maldives offers access not only to the white sand beaches and aquamarine waters that make this archipelago a natural paradise, but also a wealth of museums and historic sites illuminating Maldivian culture. While the city of Malé itself has lovely manmade beaches on its shores, there are island hideaways with long stretches of pristine sands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs just a short boat ride away. To explore the fascinating history of this atoll, visit the Maldives National Museum, located within the tranquil gardens of Sultan Park in the heart of the city. Nearby, the glistening white marble of the Islamic Center envelops the golden dome of the Grand Friday Mosque, opened in 1984 as one of the country’s most important landmarks. A more ancient heritage site, the Old Friday Mosque has been in continuous use since its construction in the 17th century and is especially notable for the intricate carvings in its coral walls.
