Hukuru Miskiiy, a historical icon
Hukury Miskiiy, which translates as ‘Friday Mosque' is one of the most renowned historical attractions in the Maldivian capital Male. The venerated mosque inherits a legacy which dates back to nearly 900 years and it holds a special position in the hearts of Maldivians as the first mosque to be constructed in the islands following the conversion of the Maldivians to Islam in the 12th century. However the structure which stands today is largely the result of a reconstruction decreed by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1665.
The revered place of worship features numerous distinctive design features. Both the exterior and interior walls of the building are constructed of coral stone which is elaborately carved with ornamental patterns and Arabic calligraphy. The window frames, doors and roof are constructed of various kinds of precious woods such as teak, redwood and red sandalwood. There are numerous beautiful lacquer works and lovely coral carvings within the building, with the lacquer adornments particularly prominent in the domes which are featured in the ceiling.
Finely carved wooden sculptures are another feature of the mosque with magnificent woodcarvings adding to the lustre of the building. One large panel dating to the 13th century describes the introduction of the Islamic faith to the Maldive Islands. The mosque compound contains several old tombstones which are dedicated to the memory of deceased heroes, sultans and nobles.
The design of the mosque differs from typical Islamic religious architecture in not featuring a lofty dome or towering minaret. Instead the gently rising roof and low eaves are reminiscent of Japanese architecture. However these design features suit the climatic conditions prevalent in the Maldives.
The inclusion of the word ‘Friday' in the name of the mosque relates to the fact that it is the day of the week on which all Muslim men are required to attend the religious congregation at noon in a mosque. In years past, Hukuru Miskiiy functioned as the principal mosque where noon Friday prayers were conducted.
The Maldives with its sunny beaches is always a wonderful holiday destination. Visitors seeking a Maldives island resort will be delighted with the accommodations of the Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, a fine Maldives resort which offers elegantly furnished rooms and attentive hospitality.
The revered place of worship features numerous distinctive design features. Both the exterior and interior walls of the building are constructed of coral stone which is elaborately carved with ornamental patterns and Arabic calligraphy. The window frames, doors and roof are constructed of various kinds of precious woods such as teak, redwood and red sandalwood. There are numerous beautiful lacquer works and lovely coral carvings within the building, with the lacquer adornments particularly prominent in the domes which are featured in the ceiling.
Finely carved wooden sculptures are another feature of the mosque with magnificent woodcarvings adding to the lustre of the building. One large panel dating to the 13th century describes the introduction of the Islamic faith to the Maldive Islands. The mosque compound contains several old tombstones which are dedicated to the memory of deceased heroes, sultans and nobles.
The design of the mosque differs from typical Islamic religious architecture in not featuring a lofty dome or towering minaret. Instead the gently rising roof and low eaves are reminiscent of Japanese architecture. However these design features suit the climatic conditions prevalent in the Maldives.
The inclusion of the word ‘Friday' in the name of the mosque relates to the fact that it is the day of the week on which all Muslim men are required to attend the religious congregation at noon in a mosque. In years past, Hukuru Miskiiy functioned as the principal mosque where noon Friday prayers were conducted.
The Maldives with its sunny beaches is always a wonderful holiday destination. Visitors seeking a Maldives island resort will be delighted with the accommodations of the Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, a fine Maldives resort which offers elegantly furnished rooms and attentive hospitality.
