PLACES OF INTEREST 3

                                           Photo: Sultan Park & Museum

Sultan Park and the National Museum

Maldives changed from a Republic to a Sultanate and back to a Republic in a span of just 16 years (1953 to 1968). The Sultan's Palace however was demolished except for a three-story building and the palace grounds were turned into a public park known as the Sultan Park. The surviving palace building within the park is today today the National Museum.

Opened on November 19, 1952, the National museum displays a large and varied collection of a glorious bygone era including stone objects from the pre-Islamic period; royal antiquities like thrones, palanquins, costume, coins, and ornaments, arms and amours. Two of the most significant items on display are the coral stone head of Lord Buddha and a wooden panel erected in the Hukuru Miskiiy. Timings: 9 AM - 3 PM. Closed on Fridays and public holidays.

                                              Photo: Artificial Beach 

Artificial Beach

Despite so many beautiful beaches in Maldives, the capital is not blessed in this respect. Today the people of Male' can enjoy a good swim at artificial beach. this is a popular place for parents who take their kids for some fresh air and space to enjoy. Today it is not only a popular place for swimmers, but a variety of sports, games shows and other events such as live music shows as well. On a regular day, it is a place for swimmers, children, parents and active sportsman. On special occasions, it is a place for get together, music shows, carnivals, parades and you name it. On Fridays the beach is quite packed, so consider this fact before getting there for a swim.