Malé, Capital city in Kaafu Atoll, Maldives
Malé is the national capital of the Maldives in Kaafu Atoll, a small island densely packed with multistory concrete buildings, narrow alleyways, and flat rooftops that leave little open space. Motorcycles and small cars navigate tight roads shared with pedestrians, while boats constantly arrive and depart from the waterfront.
The island became the political center of the sultanate in the 12th century and remained the main settlement of the archipelago ever since. During the 20th century the population grew rapidly, and new neighborhoods appeared through land reclamation along the original shoreline.
The call to prayer echoes across neighborhoods several times a day, and locals often wear traditional clothing even when running errands or sitting in tea shops. Markets come alive every afternoon with families buying fresh tuna and vendors arranging colorful produce under corrugated metal roofs.
Most shops and restaurants close briefly during prayer times, especially in the early afternoon and evening hours. Visitors can walk across the island easily, but motorcycle taxis save time in the midday heat or when covering longer distances.
There is not a single river, stream, or natural pond anywhere on the island, and all drinking water comes from desalination plants. The government banned the sale and consumption of alcohol throughout the city in 2009, affecting even hotels and restaurants.
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