{
  "id": 15983343,
  "title": "Inside Malé’s remarkable 400-year-old coral mosque",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/22/inside-males-remarkable-400-year-old-coral-mosque-15983343",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-22T01:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/10/22/inside-males-remarkable-400-year-old-coral-mosque"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is home to Hukuru Miskiiy, a nearly 400-year-old coral mosque that continues to be a central part of the city's Islamic history. Built largely from coral stone blocks, the mosque features intricate carvings and Arabic calligraphy, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of the Maldives. Despite its age, the mosque remains functional, with a capacity for over 100 worshippers at a time. Completed in 1657 under Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I, the mosque was constructed using coral blocks, a material abundant in the islands. The mosque's walls are adorned with geometric patterns, floral designs, and Quranic verses, showcasing the skill of Maldivian craftsmen. The tower, or Munnaaru, built in 1675, stands as a reminder of Malé's transformation from a coastal town to a densely built capital. The mosque is also surrounded by ancient wells and a royal cemetery, further emphasizing its significance as a living piece of Malé's history. As the Maldives marked 900 years since its conversion to Islam, Hukuru Miskiiy stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Islamic heritage in the region.",
  "summary": "Built by hand from reef stone and intricate timberwork, Hukuru Miskiiy offers a quieter glimpse of Maldivian history beyond the beaches and resorts.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Inside Malé’s remarkable 400-year-old coral mosque",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/22/inside-males-remarkable-400-year-old-coral-mosque",
        "published": "2026-10-22T01:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}