Utheemu, Haa Alif Atoll, North Maldives, Maldives
Palace / Museum · Utheemu Dynasty · 16th Century
Utheemu Ganduvaru is a wooden palace located on the island of Utheemu in Haa Alif Atoll. It is the birthplace of Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu, who is revered as a national hero for liberating the Maldives from Portuguese occupation in 1573. The palace has been preserved as a museum, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Maldivian royalty centuries ago.
Construction: 16th Century – 16th Century
Founder: Hussain Khatib
Key figures: Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu
Significance: Birthplace of Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu, who liberated Maldives from Portuguese rule.
- 1573: Maldives liberated
Architectural styles: Traditional Maldivian
Materials: Wood, Palm Thatch
- Wooden Palace: Preserved wooden structure.
- Interiors: Traditional furniture and swinging beds.
- Gardens: Surrounding gardens.
Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00 (summer) · 09:00 - 18:00 (winter) – Guided tours available.
- General: €5.00
Accessibility: Partial.
Official site: http://visitmaldives.com
Address: Utheemu, Haa Alif Atoll, Maldives
Coordinates: 6.8333, 73.1167