Cultural Bahrain

OVERVIEW

Delve into the cultural diversity of Bahrain, an island nation that is believed to be the site of the ancient kingdom of Dilmun. While browsing the Bahrain National Museum, you will likely see artifacts from Dilmun, a trading port that flourished about 4,000 years ago. Other highlights include a re-creation of a Bronze Age souq and glazed pottery and jewelry from the period when ancient Greeks sailed to Bahrain to trade for pearls. You will discover more about pearling at Bu Maher Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that you will reach by boat. Built in 1840, it guarded the pearling trail that linked Bahrain to other nations. For glimpses into other time periods, you will visit the Shaikh Ebrahim Cultural Center and a collection of historical houses, including one owned by a pearl merchant and another where the ruling sheikh lived. A photo stop at the Bahrain World Trade Center will add yet another cultural dimension.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Browse antiquities that date back thousands of years in the Bahrain National Museum.
• Cruise to Bu Maher Fort, a World Heritage site that guarded Bahrain’s pearling trail.
• View historical homes from different time periods at an enlightening cultural center.
• Pause for photos of the twin towers that make up the Bahrain World Trade Center.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.