History & Culture of Maldives

If someone tells you that Maldives has been inhabited for at least 2500 years, it might come as surprise to you. However, there is linguistic, historical and archaeological evidence supporting that fact.

History indicates that 300 B.C Buddhism arrived in the Maldives. Ruins of stupas and other temples from those days can still be found on some islands. Buddhism remained the predominant religion till 1153 AD.

Then came western colonialism. First came the Portuguese in the 16th Century. They held the nation hostage for about 15 years and 6 months. Then the Maldivians took charge of their own lives again.

After a long period of independence, the Maldives became a British Protectorate in 1887. In 1965, the country joined the international community as an independent and sovereign nation.