Ancient & Modern Bahrain

OVERVIEW

See the attractions that best represent the past and present of Bahrain, an island nation that became independent in 1971. Few places are quite so emblematic of the country’s modern mindset as the Bahrain International Circuit, a venue for Formula One racing, drag racing and other high-speed motorsports. For the ultimate view of the race tracks, you will visit the VIP tower and the media center, which was once the world’s largest. Similarly, the Al-Fateh Grand Mosque is wonderfully modern and features the world’s largest fiberglass dome and space for 7,000 worshippers. Not far away at the Portuguese-built Bahrain Fort, you will gain a historical perspective of the country. UNESCO deemed the fortification worthy of a World Heritage site designation as excavations of the surrounding area have unearthed evidence of human occupation since 2,300 BC. You will delve even deeper into the past by browsing the collection of antiquities at the Bahrain National Museum.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See how Bahrain has embraced modern life at the Bahrain International Circuit race track.
• Visit the contemporary Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, which can hold 7,000 worshippers.
• Explore Bahrain Fort, an archaeological site that lends insight into the country’s past.
• Browse the antiquities in the Bahrain National Museum.

HELPFUL HINTS

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