Religion & Culture

The Maldives has been inhabited for at least 2500 years. Being the hub for many adventurous visitors and sailors from all over, the country has evolved into an enriched and unique culture.

Before the Maldivians were converted to Islam in 1153 AD, Buddhism as a religion prevailed. Ruins of stupas and other temples are proof of this statement and do still exist. The Maldives has always been a very peaceful destination apart from isolated encounters with foreign invaders. The Portuguese, held the nation hostage for around 17 years during the 17th Century.

From 1887 to 1965, the Maldives was under British Protectorate. The Maldives has been a sovereign state since that era.

Since conversion to Islam, the Maldives remained a Sultanate till the proclamation of the First Republic in 1953, which did not succeed. The Sultanate returned till the Second Republic was proclaimed in 1968 and succeeded.

The Maldivian culture is a unique and practical phenomenon which is distinguished amongst the fisher folk, the adventurer on the high seas, and sincere gesture towards guests. Binding this whole is the unique Sanskrit-driven language (called Dhivehi) along with the Islamic faith.