Maldives, Island nation in Indian Ocean.
The Maldives is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean comprising 26 natural atolls with 1,190 coral islands distributed across 90,000 square kilometers of territorial waters. The islands form two parallel atoll chains stretching approximately 820 kilometers from north to south, with each atoll containing a lagoon with coral reefs, sand islands, and deep blue channels between outer reef formations.
Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms governed the territory from the 3rd century until Islamization occurred in the 12th century under Sultan Muhammad al-Adil. The territory became a British protectorate in 1887 while retaining internal autonomy, gained complete independence in July 1965, and transformed from a sultanate to a republic in 1968.
The population follows Sunni Islam as the state religion, shaping daily routines through prayer times, Ramadan observance, and local customs. Fishermen, boat builders, and artisans preserve centuries-old techniques for crafting coir rope and lacquered woodwork.
Velana International Airport near Malé serves as the main arrival point for visitors, while seaplanes, speedboats, and traditional dhoni vessels connect the islands since no roads link the scattered territories. The dry season from November through April offers favorable conditions with reduced monsoon rainfall, though some islands allow access only to guests of resorts located there.
Natural ground levels reach a maximum elevation of 2.4 meters above sea level, making this the flattest nation on Earth. Due to rising sea levels, the government plans land acquisition in other countries as a contingency measure.
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