Manadhoo (Dhivehi: މަނަދޫ) is the capital of Noonu Atoll in the Maldives. Manadhoo is the third most populous island and the largest natural island in Noonu Atoll. History So far, the history of Manadhoo has not been studied by any authority despite having a historic place known as "Maamiskithu Vevu" a bathing tank with ancient Arabic calligraphy and well-bricked walls. Vevu (Dhivehi) or bathing tanks, were used as public baths and later for ablution. The actual period of this Vevu is unknown, however sandstone used in construction is evidence pointing to the pre-Islamic period (500BCE-1153AD).These types of baths are found in other parts of Maldives. Coral stone is also seen in some of the baths and mosques. This supports the theory that the Vevu was built earlier than most coral stone mosques. Little information is available on the ancient people and their way of life. Evidence suggests that Manadhoo has been populated and thriving as early as the 4th-century BC. It is argued that the earliest settlers migrated from Arabia, eastern Africa and the Indian subcontinent among other places. Geography The island is north of the country's capital, Malé. Geographically, Manadhoo is situated in the very centre of the atoll equally reachable for rest of other inhabited island to the north and south-west of the atoll. The island of Manadhoo measures approximately , and has a natural harbour surrounded by natural seawalls. The island is at the south-east of the atoll, according to the formation of the atoll. The major available land is uninhabited. Governance The island is the capital of South Miladhunmadulu (Noonu Atoll), and most of the government offices have been established. The Secretariat of the South Miladhummadulu Atoll Council Manadhoo Police Station Secretariat of the Manadhoo Council Noonu Manadhoo Magistrate court Noonu Atoll School Noonu Atoll Hospital Noonu Atoll Family and Children Service Centre Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) - Manadhoo Branch Prosecutor General's Office - Miladhunmadulu Dhekunuburi Branch FENAKA Corporation - Manadhoo Branch Maldives Post - Noonu Manadhoo Branch Bank of Maldives - Manadhoo Branch Agro National Corporation - N Atoll Branch Business Centre Corporation - N Atoll Branch The President of Manadhoo council is Mr. Abdurrahman Sobeeh. Demography Manaduans are a mixed race, as in any part of the Maldives. Economy The main livelihood of the population depends on construction carpentry work civil service, tourism, fishing and private business. The island has become a hub