Overview
The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands, spread across 90,000 square kilometers of the Indian Ocean. Located southwest of India and Sri Lanka, this island nation is a popular tourist destination, known for its luxurious resorts, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The Maldives is a parliamentary republic, with a population of approximately 430,000 people, predominantly of Dhivehi ethnicity. The capital and largest city is Malé, which is home to the country's main airport, seaport, and government buildings.The Maldives is a low-lying island nation, with an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level. The islands are coral atolls, formed by the accumulation of coral and other marine sediments. The country's unique geography has made it vulnerable to climate change, with rising sea levels and increased frequency of cyclones posing significant threats to the Maldives' very existence.
The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of the Indian Ocean. The islands have been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to around 500 BCE. The Maldives has a unique blend of Buddhist, Islamic, and African influences, reflected in its architecture, art, and cuisine.
History/Background
The Maldives has a long and complex history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. The islands were an important stopover for traders and travelers between India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East. In the 12th century, the Maldives converted to Islam, which has had a profound impact on the country's culture and society.In the 16th century, the Maldives became a Portuguese colony, followed by a period of Dutch rule in the 17th century. The Maldives gained independence from the British in 1965, and has since developed a parliamentary democracy. The country has a long history of fishing and pearl diving, which have played a significant role in its economy.
