Alif Dhaalu Atoll – Southern Ari, with the ancient mosque of Fenfushi
Alif Dhaalu, or Southern Ari Atoll, preserves traces of many centuries of Maldivian history. Buddhist remains, including a stupa, have been found on Ariadhoo island, recalling the era before the Maldives embraced Islam. On Fenfushi stands an ancient mosque with decorated wooden ceilings and lacquerwork panels, a fine example of traditional Maldivian craftsmanship.
The administrative division was created on 1 March 1984, when Ari Atoll was split into a northern and a southern part – the two most recent divisions of the Maldives. Today the atoll is famous for its year-round whale sharks and coral reefs. Do you have stories or photos from Alif Dhaalu? Share them with our community!