
History of Maldives
Not only is Maldives unique in its topographical beauty, its history is also as colourful and complex. Inhabited from as early as the 5th Century BCE by people from Sri Lanka and India, people in Maldives were originally Buddhists but adopted Islam in 1153 CE. This is mainly attributed to the many North African and Middle East travellers who visited the island while on their trading routes.
Besides the religions of the people, Maldivians also inherited ancient mythologies that are passed by mouth through the many generations. Hence, the fusion of these myths and the religions of Maldives has created a rich and vibrant culture that are prominent in the way of life of the people here.
Furthermore, Maldives was colonised by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British up until their independence in 1965. This island was also badly hit by the Tsunami in 2004 with hundreds killed and suffered serious damage to the infrastructures of the many islands.