10 Things to Do at the Grand Friday Mosque (Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu Al Auzam) in Male, Maldives
The Grand Friday Mosque (Masjid-al-Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu Al Auzam) in Male, Maldives, is an impressive building that is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Built in the late 18th century, it is the largest mosque in the country and a symbol of the Islamic faith in the Maldives. Here are 10 things to do at the Grand Friday Mosque that will give you an insight into the culture and history of the Maldives.
1. Admire the Exquisite Architecture
The Grand Friday Mosque is a beautiful building, with intricate details and design elements that make it stand out from the other buildings in Male. The mosque is made of coral stone and has a white and gold color scheme that gives it a regal feel. The minarets are particularly impressive, soaring into the sky and adding to the overall beauty of the building.
2. Explore the Interior
The interior of the mosque is just as impressive as the exterior. The walls are decorated with intricate carvings, and the ceiling is painted with traditional Islamic designs. There is also a large prayer hall, where visitors can observe the daily prayers.
3. Visit the Museum
The Grand Friday Mosque houses a museum containing artifacts and documents related to the history of the Maldives. The museum is a great place to learn more about the country’s past and its Islamic heritage.
4. Attend a Lecture
The mosque also hosts lectures and talks on various topics related to the Islamic faith. These lectures are open to the public and can be a great way to learn more about the religion and culture of the Maldives.
5. Take a Tour
The mosque offers guided tours to visitors, which are a great way to learn more about the building and its history. The tour will take you through the various rooms and areas of the mosque, and you will be able to ask questions about the building and its significance.
6. Attend a Religious Ceremony
The Grand Friday Mosque is a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend religious ceremonies such as Friday prayers. This is a great way to experience the Islamic faith firsthand and to get a glimpse of local culture.
7. Learn About the History of the Mosque
The Grand Friday Mosque has a long and interesting history, and visitors can learn more about it by taking a guided tour or reading about it in the museum. The mosque was built in the late 18th century and has been a place of worship ever since.
8. Enjoy the Views
The Grand Friday Mosque is located in the center of Male, and the views from the building are spectacular. From the top of the minarets, you can see the city and the surrounding islands, making it a great place to take in the beauty of the Maldives.
9. Take Photos
The Grand Friday Mosque is a beautiful building, and it makes a great backdrop for photos. Whether you’re taking pictures of the building itself or the views from the top of the minarets, you’ll be sure to capture some stunning images.
10. Visit the Gift Shop
The mosque has a gift shop where visitors can buy souvenirs and other items related to the Islamic faith. These items make great gifts and are a great way to remember your visit to the Grand Friday Mosque.
The Grand Friday Mosque in Male, Maldives, is a beautiful building and a symbol of the Islamic faith in the country. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the religion or just admire the building’s architecture, there are plenty of things to do at the Grand Friday Mosque. So make sure to add it to your list of places to visit in Male!