History of Faresmathoda

The history of the settlement of Faresmathoda is inextricably linked with the maritime traditions of the archipelago's southern atolls. This unique destination, located in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, is essentially a union of two separate islands—Fares and Mathoda—which historically developed side by side before merging into a single administrative and residential structure.

Foundation and First Mentions

The exact date of the first settlement of these islands, like many others in the Maldives, is lost in the mists of time. Archaeological evidence and oral traditions indicate that Huvadhu Atoll (of which Gaafu Dhaalu is a part) has been inhabited since ancient times, long before the acceptance of Islam in the 12th century. Initially, Fares and Mathoda existed as independent fishing villages, each with its own way of life and elders, until geographical proximity and economic necessity led to their close integration.

Key Development Factors

The development of the settlement was determined by several important circumstances that transformed it into a significant locality in the region:

• Geographical Location: The islands are situated in an area rich in marine resources. Proximity to deep-ocean sections made this place ideal for the development of a commercial fishing fleet.
• Land Consolidation: A crucial stage in history was the physical and administrative unification of the two islands. The shallow waters between them allowed residents to interact easily, which eventually led to the creation of shared infrastructure and a unified community.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The life of the early settlers depended entirely on the ocean. The economic foundation of Faresmathoda was formed around the catch and processing of fish.

• Fishing Traditions: Local residents have long been renowned as skilled tuna fishermen. Techniques for drying and smoking fish (creating "Maldive fish") were the primary method of preserving the catch for trade with passing vessels and neighbouring atolls.
• Crafts and Daily Life: Beyond fishing, the population engaged in weaving mats from local plants and building dhoni boats, adapted to the conditions of the southern seas.

Major Historical Milestones

The development history of this unique settlement in the Maldives is rich in events related to the unification of the islands and the creation of modern infrastructure.

• 1976 (27 December) — Opening of the first school, "Maktab-ul-Jihad," on Fares island, laying the foundations of the education system in the community.
• 1998 — Commencement of large-scale land reclamation works in the shallow channel, physically connecting Fares and Mathoda islands into a single landmass.
• 2003 (11 May) — Official merger of the educational institutions of the two islands into the unified "Huvadhu" school, becoming the educational centre for the entire district.
• 2006 — Launch of a government project to deepen channels, significantly facilitating navigation for local fishing boats.
• 2011 (15 May) — Signing of the contract for the construction of a modern harbour, vital for the economy of the united island.
• 2012 (30 July) — Completion of the first phase of harbour construction, ensuring safe mooring for vessels in all weather conditions.
• 2016 (March) — Start of the second stage of port modernisation, including the creation of new quay walls and breakwaters.
• 2018 (January) — Completion of harbour reconstruction works, transforming Faresmathoda into one of the key maritime hubs of the atoll.
• 2018 (August) — Solemn ceremony launching the coastal protection project and announcement of plans for airport construction.
• 2019 — Commencement of works to reclaim 20 hectares of new land, specifically designated for the runway.
• 2020 (November) — Signing of an agreement with MTCC for the design and construction of the airport complex.
• 2021 (January) — Start of the active phase of terminal construction and runway paving.
• 2023 (13 March) — Historic landing of the first test flight by the national airline, confirming the facility's readiness.
• 2023 (15 March) — Official opening of Faresmathoda Airport, connecting the island via regular air services with the rest of the country.

Key Development Stages and Their Significance

The evolution of Faresmathoda is an example of how strategic planning and infrastructure projects can transform remote settlements into a modern regional centre. The main milestones of the city's development are associated with overcoming geographical isolation and creating conditions for sustainable economic growth.

• Physical Unification of Islands
  The reclamation of land in the shallow channel between Fares and Mathoda islands became a fundamental urban planning event. This decision allowed for the creation of a single administrative space, uniting two historical communities into one holistic urban organism with shared infrastructure and communications.
• Construction of a Modern Harbour
  For a population whose life is inextricably linked to the ocean, the creation of a reliable port was an economic breakthrough. A protected deep-water harbour ensured safety for the fishing fleet and simplified the logistics of goods, strengthening the city's status as an important fishing hub in the southern Maldives.
• Integration into the National Air Network
  The construction and launch of its own airport radically changed the region's transport accessibility. The appearance of regular air services not only made it easier for local residents to travel to the capital but also opened real prospects for attracting investment and developing tourism in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
• Centralisation of the Education System
  Merging scattered educational institutions into a single educational cluster allowed for the optimisation of resources and improved the quality of learning. This event had significant cultural importance, contributing to the final social cohesion of residents from both parts of the city.
• Large-scale Territory Expansion
  The implementation of land reclamation projects played a key role in the further development of the city. Artificially created areas of land made it possible to accommodate the runway and reserve zones for future residential development, solving the acute problem of land scarcity for the islands.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The urban structure of Faresmathoda is unique for the region and is dictated not so much by a succession of classical architectural styles, but by the struggle for territory and adaptation to the tropical climate. The city's appearance was formed during the process of merging two independent settlements into a single urban organism, where traditions of island architecture coexist with modern utilitarian development.

Evolution of Styles and Eras

In the architectural history of the island, two key periods can be distinguished, each leaving its mark on the visual perception of the urban environment:

• Traditional Period (until the late 20th century): Historically, buildings consisted of single-storey houses constructed from coral stone using lime mortar. This vernacular style was characterised by thick walls to maintain coolness and gable roofs. Although such structures have almost disappeared today, their influence can be traced in the layout of old quarters with narrow, winding streets that provide shade.
• Period of Modernisation and Functionalism (from the 1990s): Modern Faresmathoda is an example of pragmatic island construction. The main materials are concrete blocks and cement, with roofs covered in profiled sheeting. The style can be described as tropical functionalism: houses are often painted in bright pastel colours (turquoise, pink, yellow) and feature open verandas and inner courtyards hidden from prying eyes by high walls ("gifili").

Landmarks and Zoning

The urban development of the settlement proceeded linearly, following the geography of the reef. A crucial feature was the artificial transformation of the landscape, which defined the modern structure of the city.

• The Zone of Connection (The Causeway): The former shallow channel between Fares and Mathoda islands has turned into the central axis of the city. Land reclamation not only connected the two districts but also created space for new public infrastructure, erasing the boundaries between the once disparate communities.
• Port Zone: The modern harbour with powerful breakwaters and a promenade is the economic heart of the city. This engineering structure dominates the coastline and serves as the main public space where the residents' evening social life is concentrated.
• Airport District: The newest part of the city, located on artificially created territories. The terminal building represents an example of modern transport architecture in the Maldives, combining concise forms with elements referencing maritime themes.

Notable Personalities

The small island community of Faresmathoda is known for its political activity and for being the birthplace of several statesmen who have reached high posts at the national level. Local residents actively participate in the public life of the country, and natives of the island represent the region's interests in the government and parliament.

• Hussain Mohamed Latheef
  Vice President of the Republic of Maldives (since 2023)
  A native of Faresmathoda who began his career in the public sector and social sphere. Before his election as Vice President, he represented his home constituency in the People's Majlis (Parliament) for two terms. His work as an MP was associated with the protection of human rights and the development of social infrastructure in the atolls. He is one of the highest-ranking politicians originating from the Gaafu Dhaalu region.
• Ibrahim Muttalib
  Politician, former Member of the People's Majlis
  A well-known parliamentarian who represented the interests of the Faresmathoda constituency. During his parliamentary tenure, he actively participated in drafting legislative initiatives regarding social security and the rights of citizens with disabilities. His work contributed to drawing the attention of central authorities to the problems of remote islands.
• Ashraf Rasheed
  Member of the People's Majlis
  A political figure continuing the tradition of representing the island at the national level. As the MP for the Faresmathoda constituency, he deals with issues of regional development, maintaining the link between the local community and the central government in the Maldives.