he National Museum of the Maldives was established with the dual intentions of preserving the history and culture of the country and to stimulate interest and research into these fields.

It was opened by the late Mr. Mohamed Amin Didi who was the Prime Minister, in 1952 . It was 1st Rabeeul Awwal, the Maldivian National Day.

The Museum is situated in the Sultan Park in the only remaining structure of the Sultan's Palace which was destroyed in 1968. The Sultan Park is the site of the official palace quarters as far as the seventeenth century.

The museum is a three-storey building which itself has historical significance as it is the only remaining "monument" to the lost heritage of the Sultans' glorious reign.Although the museum has moved to various locations since it was opened, it has remained at these premises for a long time.

The Museum is a great attraction for the many tourists who visit the country as it gives a special insight to the Maldivian culture.