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The heritage sites in the Maldives are a direct result of the influences of various settlers in the country. The very first Maldivians do not seem to have left any archaeological remains. However, archaeological remains have been found from around the 3rd century CE and constitute the oldest heritage sites in the country. Artefacts dating from around the 3rd century CE up to the 12th century CE highlights the country's Buddhist past. Many of the islands located on Handunmathi Atoll's eastern reef have important Buddhist archaeological sites such as Dhanbidoo, Mundoo, Gan and Isdhoo. There are remains of a temple compound and a well known, well preserved Buddhist stupa at Kuruhinna on Gan Island. Buddhist artefacts found elsewhere are now in the National Museum in Male. The other notable heritage sites in the Maldives date back to after the country's conversion to Islam in 1153. These include the Hukuru Miskiy mosque, cemetery and minaret built in 1658 AD. The mosque is a unique example of coral stone architecture and lacquer work techniques. A graveyard dating to the 17th century is also found on the premises. The unique designs carved on the coral tombstones found here are not replicated anywhere else. The adjoining coral stone minaret is the first round minaret in the country. Apart from rehabilitation of the roof structure, the mosque has remained virtually unchanged. Other heritage sites include Matheerah, a famous shrine formerly visited by Maldivian royalty in Haa Alif atoll and the ancient mosques in Kelaa and Utheemu which can also be found here. Other sites include the small Dharumavantha Rasgeefaanu mosque in Male considered the oldest in the country. Eid Miskiiy also in Male was one of the first mosques with Islamic influences to be built during the 18th century. It displays fine geometric patterns and a lock and key design on its exterior. The door and windows frames are made of intricately carved wood and Koranic verses feature in the elaborate lacquer decorations on the ceiling. The mosque was renovated in 2005. Also an 18th century structure is the Kalhuvakaru mosque in Male which sports elaborate coral carvings on its outer walls and a carved hard wood ceiling. Ancient mosques that are heritage sites include Geiy Miskiy and Kedeiri Miskiy in Fuvahmulah and the mosques in the Koagaanu area in Seenu atoll. Heritage sites that are not of religious origin include Mulee Aagee Palace built in 1906 by Sultan Shamsudeen III as a residence for his son. Deposed before he could reside here, the building served as the presidential palace but is now where one will find the Maldives National Museum. The Esjehi Art Gallery in Male is housed in a building built in the 1870s by a nobleman and is noted for its finely carved and well preserved wooden panels and carved window and door frames. It is the oldest private building in the capital. When holidaying here, stay at Baros Maldives, a much awarded Maldives resort which is also one of the best in the country. It provides its guests with all the elements required for a tranquil and romantic vacation beginning with its selection of luxurious, contemporary residences and villas along with culinary options that range from casual to formal, healing spa treatments and all day outdoor activities surrounded by sun, sea and sand. The property is home to renowned Maldives villas where guests can enjoy the fantastic natural scenery or spend quiet undisturbed days full of rest and relaxation. Peru is one of the most interesting countries to visit in south America, we invite you to enjoy it, for more information visit Peru Tourism Welcome to Travelling2peru.com (Leaders in Peruvian tourism, Machu Picchu and Cusco Tours) International posts, dedicated to all travellers who wish to travel around the world. For more information visit Cusco
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