Malé Old Friday Mosque Hukuru Miskiy
Malé's oldest mosque, built in 1656 from intricate coral stone, showcasing unique Islamic architecture and historical royal graves.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, safer exploration
Malé Old Friday Mosque Hukuru Miskiy
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, safer exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Malé's oldest mosque, built in 1656 from intricate coral stone, showcasing unique Islamic architecture and historical royal graves.
"A must-visit historical site with stunning coral stone architecture and a peaceful ambiance."
👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a scarf for your hair. Respect the sacred space.
🚶♂️ Explore by Foot
Malé is walkable. The mosque is centrally located, making it an easy stop during your city stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Coral Stone Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the unique beauty of this 17th-century mosque, constructed entirely from coral stones with detailed carvings.

Ancient Tombstones
Surrounding Grounds
Explore the historical tombstones, including those of Sultans and Presidents, offering a glimpse into Maldivian royalty.

Ornate Wooden Interiors
Interior
Admire the beautifully crafted wooden ceiling adorned with intricate designs and the serene mihrab.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code is Key
Best Time for a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dear Male People :)
👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a scarf for your hair. Respect the sacred space.
🚶♂️ Explore by Foot
Malé is walkable. The mosque is centrally located, making it an easy stop during your city stroll.
🕰️ Visit in the Evening
After 6 PM offers cooler weather and a more pleasant experience for sightseeing.
📸 Admire from Outside
Even if you can't enter, the exterior coral stone walls and design are stunning.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women, bring a scarf for your hair. Respect the sacred space.
🚶♂️ Explore by Foot
Malé is walkable. The mosque is centrally located, making it an easy stop during your city stroll.
🕰️ Visit in the Evening
After 6 PM offers cooler weather and a more pleasant experience for sightseeing.
📸 Admire from Outside
Even if you can't enter, the exterior coral stone walls and design are stunning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hukuru Miskiy for its stunning and unique coral stone architecture, rich history, and serene atmosphere. It's considered a must-visit historical landmark in Malé, offering a glimpse into the Maldives' Islamic heritage. Some visitors note the importance of adhering to the strict dress code.
"Good place to visit. A Maldivian mosque built 700 years ago. It architecture is very old and unique. Got Sultan and President grave here. Please wear a proper clothes (long pants and cover your hair for woman) if you want to enter inside. Respect the religion."
Wan Nazmi
"A heritage of Male Maldives with traceable history back to 700 years approx with the spread of Islam to the archipelago."
Ianhung Lee
"Hukuru Miskiyy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque, is a must-visit historical site in Malé. Built in 1658, it showcases stunning coral stone architecture with intricate carvings and Quranic inscriptions. The mosque’s peaceful ambiance and beautifully crafted wooden interiors reflect the rich Islamic heritage of the Maldives. Visitors should dress modestly, as it remains an active place of worship. A truly remarkable piece of history and spirituality in the heart of Male"
Mustaque Ahmed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hukuru Miskiy is located in the heart of Malé, making it easily accessible by foot from most parts of the city. If you're arriving by ferry from another island, it's a short walk from the ferry terminal. Taxis are also available but often unnecessary for this central location.
Yes, Malé is generally considered a safe city for walking, even in the evenings. Many locals and visitors walk around after 6 PM. However, as with any city, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.
For a short visit, focus on a walking tour of the city center, which includes the Old Friday Mosque, the fish market, and the local markets. This allows you to see key sights without needing extensive travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the mosque is a historical site, it is also an active place of worship. Entry for prayer is free, but there might be a small fee or donation requested for tourists wishing to explore the premises outside of prayer times. It's best to check on arrival.
The mosque is primarily a place of worship, so visitor access is usually restricted during prayer times. Generally, it's open to visitors outside of these times, often in the late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to confirm current hours upon arrival.
A strict modest dress code is enforced. Women must cover their hair, and both men and women should wear long pants and cover their shoulders. This is a sign of respect for the religious site.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's crucial to be respectful and avoid taking pictures during prayer times or of individuals without their consent. Be mindful of the serene atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Built in 1656, it's the oldest mosque in the Maldives and a significant landmark showcasing the spread of Islam in the archipelago. It's a testament to the rich Islamic heritage and craftsmanship of the Maldivian people.
Pay close attention to the intricate carvings on the coral stone walls, the ornate Arabic calligraphy, the floral motifs, and the beautifully decorated wooden ceiling inside. The unique texture of the coral stone itself is remarkable.
Yes, the surrounding grounds feature ancient tombstones, including those of Maldivian royalty and other notable figures, offering insights into the country's history.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene and peaceful, providing a quiet setting for reflection and prayer. The beautifully decorated interior contributes to this tranquil ambiance.
Absolutely. Even from the outside, the mosque's coral stone walls and traditional Maldivian design are beautiful and convey its historical importance. It's a quick yet interesting stop during a city walk.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the mosque is located in the central part of Malé, which is bustling with local cafes and restaurants. You can easily find places to try Maldivian cuisine or international options nearby.
Maldivian cuisine heavily features fish, coconut, and rice. Look for dishes like Garudhiya (fish broth), Mas Huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut), and various curries. Many places also offer standard international fare.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate coral stone carvings on the exterior walls offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The details of the wooden ceiling inside and the ancient tombstones in the courtyard are also highly photogenic.
While generally allowed, be respectful. Avoid photographing people without permission and refrain from taking pictures during prayer times. Focus on architectural details and the serene environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♂️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Coral Stone
Beyond the exterior, the interior of the mosque is equally captivating. The wooden ceiling is a masterpiece of Maldivian woodworking, adorned with complex geometric designs and patterns. The mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca for prayer, is also elaborately decorated. The overall ambiance inside is one of profound peace and spirituality, inviting visitors to reflect on the history and faith it represents. Exploring these details offers a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication of the artisans who created this sacred space.
A Glimpse into Maldivian History and Royalty
The presence of these graves underscores the mosque's long-standing importance as a central religious and cultural site. It has been a place of worship and a burial ground for centuries, witnessing the ebb and flow of Maldivian history. For visitors interested in genealogy, history, or simply understanding the cultural context of the Maldives, these tombstones offer a fascinating narrative. They are a quiet reminder of the generations who have lived, ruled, and worshipped in this island nation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit