Museum

Located in the center of Meeru Island Resort & Spa, the traditional Dhoni-shaped Meeru Museum was opened in a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 3, 2014.

The museum exhibits several artifacts from centuries ago that portray the Maldivian way of life. Particularly how the early local Maldivians cooked, dressed, traveled and schooled.

From traditional wooden box used as travel storage (lakudi foshi), to wooden Maldivian sandals worn until the early 1980s (ujjehi maravalhhi), Meeru Museum is sure to intrigue culturally curious minds.

A glimpse into the Maldivian way of life

The items have been collected from different islands over many years. The collection consists of everyday tools and other items used in the Maldives. Both old and new. It represents the essence of what can be defined as The Maldivian Way of Life.

A museum is a living institution. It tells the story of how people lived and live in this world. We therefore make an effort to restore, replace and add items to the exhibition continuously.

How do we work? Fish? Cook? Educate our children? Play and spend our leisure time? Dress up? How do we perform our artistic talents through basketry, laquer work and other crafts?

Our expression is generally bold and pure in form and function.

The striped pattern of early laquerwork and the woven design of the unique Maldivian sarong are examples of a “mordern”, almost minimalistic style. It contrasts the intricate ornamental designs of neighboring countries.

Until recently, we lived in remote, scattered and isolated islands. For this reason, we have had to be self-sufficient. Techniques and materials reflect the limited availability of resources. In this exhibition, you will see many examples of the ingenious creative use of materials.