Malé

Malé - the docks, Maldives With about 100 000 inhabitants on an island barely larger than 3 sq. mi.², the capital is one of the most dense in the world Patrice Hauser / Easyvoyage

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Malé is the only major town in the Maldives. To find your way around easily, take the Marine Drive up to the junction with Chandani Magu. Stop at the market and the Singapore Bazaar. Then walk along Chandani Magu for 650 ft, then turn left to take the Medu Ziraye Magu. The main monuments lie in this neighbourhood. Explore the Muleeage Palace, an imposing colonial-style building erected at the start of the 20th century. This palace was used as a presidential residence until 1994. Today, this function is fulfilled by the Theemuge Palace, located in Orchid Magu. Afterwards, head towards Sultan's Park where the luxuriant gardens abound with roses and orchids. Have a nose around at the tomb of Mohammed Thakurufaanu, a national hero celebrated for his outstanding contribution to the liberation of the islands from the Portuguese in the 16th century. His tomb lies on Neelafaru Magu, close to a small mosque.