Hukuru Miskiiy-Grand Friday Mosque
Built in 1658 AD, by the then Sultan of the Maldives, the Friday Mosque is a unique example of meticulous coral stone architecture and detailed lacquer work. Built within a span of two years, the Male’ Hukuru Miskiy or The Friday Mosque of Male’ represents one of the most prolific pieces of local artistic expression. Admired by locally and internationally, the Mosque is surrounded by a graveyard dating back to the late 17th century. The graveyard has within its enclosure coral stone tombstones carved with unique designs, not seen in any other part of the world.
Adjoining the Mosque is a large coral stone Minaret that represents the beginning of round minarets in the country and forms an interesting contrast with the pre-Islamic past of the country. The Friday Mosque has been admired both for its architectural uniqueness, aesthetic value as well as for its spiritual significance for the locals. In addition, it also holds a special place in the hearts of tourists whose tours in the Capital is often incomplete without an introduction of this unique piece of Maldivian heritage.