Bahrain, a tiny archipelago in the Persian Gulf, is an unexplored destination that seamlessly blends its stunning modernity with a rich ancient history. Known for its impressive skyscrapers and thriving economy, it is also home to historical treasures dating back to the Dilmun civilisation, one of the oldest in the world. From Manama’s bustling souks and majestic mosques to mysterious burial mounds and serene beaches, Bahrain offers a diversity of experiences that capture the essence of the Middle East. Join us on this tour of the country!
Muharraq Island
Muharraq Island, one of Bahrain’s oldest and most traditional areas, provides a fascinating glimpse into Bahrain’s culture and history. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and discover traditional Bahraini architecture, characterised by local coral stone houses. The house of Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa, ruler of Bahrain from 1869 to 1932, is one of the main attractions, a stunning example of Islamic architecture with its intricate designs and interior courtyards reflecting the family life of that period. Also, explore the Muharraq fish market, where you can watch the bustling activity of local fishermen and enjoy fresh seafood.
Also, you must not leave Muharraq Island without taking the Pearl Route, a historical tour that commemorates the thriving pearl industry that was central to Bahrain’s economy for centuries. This cultural itinerary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, guides visitors through various areas related to the harvesting, processing and trade of pearls. Along the route, you can visit traditional pearl merchants’ houses, warehouses, and old watchtowers that protected this valuable industry. Highlights include the Bin Matar House, a restored residence that illustrates the life of a prominent pearl merchant, and Bu Mahir Fort, a defensive structure on the southern tip of the island that served as a starting point for pearl divers.
Al-Fateh Grand Mosque
The Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, also known as the Al-Fateh Islamic Center, is one of Bahrain’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1988, the mosque was built by the late Emir of Bahrain, Sheikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, and is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity of over 7,000 worshippers. Its impressive dome is one of the largest in the world and is made entirely of fibreglass.
Architecturally, the mosque is magnificent, with Italian marble, Austrian glass and teak wood from India. The interior is adorned with elaborate Islamic designs and Arabic calligraphy, making it a place of great beauty and serenity. In addition to its function as a place of worship, the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque houses a library and an Islamic cultural centre that provides visitors with information about Islam and Bahraini culture. Guided tours are available, providing an educational and cultural opportunity for tourists. Visitors must observe certain rules and protocols when visiting the mosque such as wearing appropriate dress and refraining from entering during prayer hours.
Tree of Life
In the middle of the Bahrain desert stands the enigmatic Tree of Life, a natural icon that has baffled scientists and visitors for centuries. This solitary tree, a 400-year-old Prosopis cineraria, 9.75 metres high, is found in a desert area where there are no water sources nearby, which has led to all sorts of theories about its survival. According to local legend, the Tree of Life is located on the site of the Garden of Eden, which adds to the mystery of its existence.
Visiting the Tree of Life is a fascinating experience for travellers in Bahrain. As well as admiring this natural miracle, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and reflect on its cultural and historical significance in the region.
Manama
Manama, Bahrain’s capital, is a vibrant city that boasts a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Immerse yourself in Bahrain’s history by visiting the National Museum, which houses artefacts and burial chambers dating back to the Dilmun civilisation and exhibits on the country’s rich heritage. Explore Manama’s souk for an authentic shopping experience, where you will find local products, spices and handicrafts.
For a more contemporary take on Manama, head to Bahrain Bay, a futuristic urban development that is home to modern skyscrapers, high-end shopping centres and a variety of dining and entertainment options. Enjoy a traditional dance performance at the modern Bahrain National Theatre, the third largest opera house in the Arab world, which is also worth seeing for its contemporary design. Lastly, do not miss the impressive Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, as stated above.
Bahrain International Circuit
The Bahrain International Circuit is much more than a race track; it is a world-class destination for motor racing enthusiasts. Built in 2004, the circuit has hosted several major competitions, including the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix. The 5.4 kilometre race track is known for its challenging design and spectacular lighting that allows for thrilling night racing in the desert.
In addition to Formula 1 races, the circuit hosts other motor racing competitions such as Formula E and endurance championships like the ‘8 Hours of Bahrain’. Visitors have the unique opportunity to enjoy special experiences such as touring the pit lanes and driving supercars around the circuit. The Bahrain International Circuit is a must-see for motor racing fans visiting Bahrain.
King Fahd Causeway
The King Fahd Causeway is an impressive structure that connects Bahrain with Saudi Arabia over the Persian Gulf. Opened in 1986, this 25-kilometre-long bridge is one of the longest overwater bridges in the world. Named after the late King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, the 1.2 billion dollar bridge (all of which was provided by the Saudis) is a symbol of cooperation between the two countries and facilitates land transport between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Crossing the King Fahd Causeway offers spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf and is a unique experience for travellers wishing to explore both countries. The bridge has significantly improved regional connectivity and trade between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, contributing to the region’s economic development.
Sitra Port
The Port of Sitra is a major maritime trade centre in Bahrain. Strategically located, it facilitates the import and export of goods, contributing to the country’s international trade. It is an interesting place for strolling along the quays while watching the bustling activity with ships loading and unloading diverse goods. At dusk, the famous dhows, traditional Arab sailing boats, set out to fish at night, offering a spectacle for visitors who want to watch them sail off into the horizon.
In addition to being a crucial logistics facility, Sitra Port also offers picturesque views of the Persian Gulf and is an ideal place to observe port activity in action.
Arad Fort
Arad Fort is a symbol of Bahrain’s historical heritage and its strategic importance in the past. Built in the 15th century, the fort stands on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea and played a key role in defending the island against external invasion. Although it is not known with certainty who built it, the fort is recognisably in the style typical of Islamic military architecture of the 15th-16th centuries and certainly predates the Portuguese occupation of Bahrain in the 16th century.
Explore the fort’s ancient walls and towers as you learn about its long history of sieges and heroic resistance. Visiting Arad Fort takes you back to a time when Bahrain was a crucial trading centre on the maritime routes between Asia and Europe.
Barbar Temple
Barbar Temple is a fascinating archaeological site dating back to the Dilmun civilisation, which flourished in Bahrain more than 4,000 years ago. This temple, dedicated to the god Enki, deity of wisdom and fresh water, and his wife Ninhursag, is one of the oldest sites on the island and provides a unique insight into the culture and religious beliefs of ancient Bahrain. Explore the temple ruins and the remains of altars and sacrificial chambers.
A visit to Barbar Temple is recommended as part of a tour that also includes the National Museum, which houses tools, weapons, pottery, small pieces of gold and a bronze bull’s head found in the temple, and some of the archaeological sites with burial mounds from the ancient Dilmun civilisation.
Riffa Fort
Riffa Fort is another impressive example of defensive architecture in Bahrain. Built in the 18th century during the reign of the Al Khalifa dynasty, this fort was a royal residence and a strategic fortress to protect the Riffa area in the centre of the country.
Explore the fort’s defensive structures and enjoy panoramic views from its towers. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, overlooking the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley, which offers visitors the perfect ambience created by the site’s history and environment.
A’ali Burial Mounds
The A’ali Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Bahrain’s most impressive and enigmatic archaeological sites. The burial mounds date back to the Dilmun civilisation, which flourished in the region between 3000 BC and 2000 BC. The burial mounds are located in the village of A’ali and are part of one of the largest and oldest cemeteries in the world. It is estimated that there are more than 170,000 burial mounds in Bahrain, with the largest and most monumental located at A’ali. Each burial mound is constructed with stones and earth, and some are of considerable size, suggesting that they were used for burying persons with high social status.
Exploring the A’ali Burial Mounds provides a fascinating insight into the burial practices and spiritual beliefs of the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Archaeologists have discovered numerous artefacts in the burial mounds, including pottery, tools and jewellery, indicating a significant level of sophistication and a rich material culture. In addition, some burial mounds contain multiple burial chambers, suggesting that the structures were used for several generations.
