Although it is overshadowed by other Gulf cities such as Dubai and Doha, the dynamic and multicultural capital of Bahrain, Manama, combines a rich history with vibrant modernity on the shores of the Persian Gulf. In fact, this port city has been an important trading hub since ancient times. It dates back over 5,000 years, with archaeological remains that reveal settlements created by the Dilmun civilisation, and the influence of civilisations that arrived by sea (including the Persians, the Portuguese and the British) is still evident. Nowadays, Manama is a melting pot of cultures, where modern skyscrapers tower next to traditional bazaars and historic sites: from the remarkable Al-Fateh Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, to the modern National Theatre of Bahrain and the fascinating National Museum of Bahrain, housed in a former Portuguese fort. Manama is, without the shadow of a doubt, a hidden gem for travellers in search of authenticity and cultural diversity in the Middle East.
Points of interest
The Al-Fateh Mosque
The Al-Fateh Mosque is a testament to the magnificence of Islamic architecture, and one Manama’s main attractions. Built in 1988 by the eleventh Emir of Bahrain (Sheikh Isa bin Al Khalifa), this glorious mosque covers an area of 6,500 m2 and can hold up to 7,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest in the world.
With an impressive cupola coated with fibreglass, its two minarets soar majestically over the cityscape. The interior of the building is exquisitely decorated with Italian marble, Austrian lamps and Indian teak doors. An outstanding feature are its walls, adorned with Kufic script carved by Bahraini craftsmen.
Apart from its architectural beauty, the mosque is notable for housing Bahrain’s National Library (with almost 7,000 volumes) since 2006, and for the Islamic Cultural Centre, an interesting place to learn more about the culture and history of Islam in Bahrain.
National Theatre of Bahrain
The National Theatre of Bahrain is the cultural epicentre of Manama, and stages a range of plays, musicals and dance shows. With an auditorium seating 1,000 people, this modern complex opened in 2012, and is the third-largest opera venue in the Arab world, providing the setting for prestigious local and international performances.
Designed in the style of a traditional Arab palace around a central courtyard which serves as the vestibule, the building was inspired by the etymology of the country’s name. In Arabic, ‘Bahrain’ means ‘two seas’ — an allusion to the confluence of the salty waters of the Persian Gulf and the fresh waters of the underground sources. That is why the theatre is orientated towards the lake to benefit from the views, while its imposing profile faces the sea.
The Theatre’s contemporary design and its exceptional acoustics make it an essential visit for lovers of art and culture during their stay in Manama.
The National Museum and other museums
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and rich culture of Bahrain at the National Museum, a post-modern edifice facing the sea, which has become the country’s main tourist attraction since it opened in 1998. This museum, consisting of nine rooms that cover 6,000 years of Bahrain’s history, houses an impressive collection of historical items that range in age from pre-historic times up to the present, including ancient ceramics, traditional weapons, and Islamic jewellery.
The museum’s most important section is devoted to archaeology, and it holds interesting remains of the ancient Dilmun civilisation, with special emphasis on its curious use of burial mounds.
Other outstanding museums in Manama include the Pearl Museum, which celebrates the rich tradition of Bahrain’s pearl industry, and the Museum of Modern Art, which exhibits contemporary works by local and international artists.
Bahrain Bay
Manama’s business and finance area, Bahrain Bay, is a dynamic, modern development that combines imposing skyscrapers with green spaces and seafront promenades. Built on land reclaimed from the sea, this coastal district is an ideal place to stroll and enjoy the panoramic views of the Bahrain skyline reflected in the lake.
Buildings that stand out among Bahrain Bay’s skyscrapers include the Four Seasons hotel, with its distinctive ‘H’ shape; the Harbour towers, twin towers 260 metres tall with 52 storeys of offices; the twisted United Tower and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, whose twin towers rise to a height of 240 metres.
Explore the innovative architecture of Bahrain Bay while relaxing in one of its restaurants, snack bars, or shops with sea views. A unique urban experience in Manama!
Souk
Immerse yourself in the everyday life of Manama by exploring its traditional souk, the historic heart of the city, and a veritable labyrinth of narrow streets where you will find a fascinating variety of shops selling spices, fabrics, jewellery, hookahs, electronic equipment, and local crafts. The souk is divided into sectors, with the highlights being the spice sector, the perfume sector, and the herbalist sector. There is also a covered, pedestrianised gallery with shops presided over by ancient trading families.
With its traditional cafés, the Manama Souk is a lively place, imbued with aromas and colours, that has retained the traditional character no longer found in the rest of the city. Join in the haggling, and enjoy an authentic shopping experience in Bahrain while you explore this delightful market.
Shopping centres
For lovers of shopping, Manama offers modern retail centres such as the City Centre Bahrain and the Seef Mall, where you will find a wide range of international stores, restaurants and entertainment. These places are perfect for an afternoon’s international shopping, eating in the ‘food courts’ that offer a mixture of local and international restaurants, or watching a Hollywood film in one of the cinemas. These retail centres are popular destinations for local residents as well as for tourists, as they provide an oasis of comfort and convenience in the bustling city of Manama.
Where to eat in Bahrain
Sample authentic Bahraini cuisine in restaurants such as Saffron by Jena, famous for its delicious machboos (meat and rice dishes), or Villa Mamas, which serves traditional Khaleeji cooking modernised for an international clientele.
Other highlights include Haji’s Café, a popular local restaurant serving authentic Bahraini breakfasts, and Masso by Chef Susy Massetti, which combines Italian cooking with local ingredients to create a unique gastronomic experience.
