The Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage has decided to include Kan’dhili Mosque of Maamigili, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll the National Heritage List.
Preserving Maldivian identity and heritage is a key priority of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, and the government has undertaken significant efforts to protect historical sites in the Maldives and revive national pride.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage is conducting site assessments across Maldives to determine the condition of the ancient heritage sites and monuments, and preserve them for further generations.
The decision to include Kan’dhili Mosque in the National Heritage List follows discussions between the Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage Minister Adam Naseer Ibrahim and Maamigili Council President Imad Farooq. During the meeting, the Maamigili Council also requested the mosque to be included in the National Heritage List.
The Ministry said the mosque features exquisite stonework of outstanding standard, and commended the council’s effort in preserving the structure. The Ministry further noted that Maamigili and Fenfushi of Alifu Dhaalu Atoll are renowned for their traditional stone carving, and emphasised the need to safeguard the sites for future generations.
The government's heritage conservation policy aims to develop the heritage sector without compromising the originality and natural beauty of historical sites. According to the Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, there are about 400 heritage sites in the Maldives. However, the total number of heritage sites, including those buried underground, is estimated to be nearly 2,000.