Made up of 33 islands in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain is ideally located as a stopover when traveling between Europe and the Far East.
The country combines traditional Arab culture with the splendid architecture and facilities of a modern oil country, and has the added advantage of being more relaxed and generous than other parts of the region.
From archaeological sites to fine restaurants and pearl diving, there is plenty to see and do in Bahrain.
Manama, capital of Bahrain
Manama has been selected as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2020. Manama is a cosmopolitan city with unique architecture, bright lights, and world-class hotels and restaurants. Cultural attractions include: Bahrain National Museum and La Fontaine Center for Contemporary Art.
Shopping malls are a part of life here. Not necessarily the soulless places you see in other countries, but sophisticated streets lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. But venture beyond the malls and you'll find traces of old Bahrain, old streets and houses that seem to have escaped constant modernization.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Al-Fateh Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and can accommodate up to 7,000 worshipers at a time. It was built on reclaimed land in the 1980s, and the finest materials from around the world were used to create a luxurious interior.
Visitors can take free guided tours of the mosque (all days except Fridays or public holidays). When I visited, the guide gave me interesting explanations about various aspects of Islam and Islamic prayer. The muezzin had just called and I was able to watch him pray from the balcony.
Women must cover their heads, shoulders, and knees (abayas available if necessary), and men must wear long pants. All visitors must take off their shoes before entering the mosque.
Bab Al Bahrain Souq and Little India
Bab Al Bahrain (formerly Manama Market) has been redeveloped into a new shopping area. However, parts of the old market remain in the surrounding streets. Here you can get a taste of Manama's old days through market stalls selling all kinds of goods, from colorful rugs and textiles to fragrant spices.
Near the market is Little India, home to the city's long-standing Indian community. Although the area is not large, there are many restaurants and shops selling incense and garlands, giving it a truly Indian feel. Don't miss the Krishna temple hidden away in a small street. Built over 200 years ago, its central courtyard and vivid decorations are typical of those found anywhere in India.
Muharraq
Muharraq, on an island close to Manama, is the country's former capital. With 5,000 years of history, it was once the center of the pearl industry and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic places in Bahrain
Bahrain has a long history spanning over 5,000 years. There are many historical and archaeological sites around the island where you can explore the country's past.
Dilmun Civilization in Bahrain
The Dilmun civilization in Bahrain was contemporary with the Sumerian civilization in Mesopotamia. There are several historical sites where you can see remains of Dilmun houses, temples and burial grounds. Learn more Bahrain Dilmun Historic Site.
Al Khamis Mosque
Al Khamis Mosque is the oldest mosque in Bahrain and one of the oldest mosques in the Arab world. It was built in 11 years.Day It was rebuilt in the 14th century and rebuilt in the 14th century.Day and 15Day century (at which time the twin spiers were added). Although it is now in ruins, visitors can still explore the site. Admission is free (closed on Mondays).
There is also a visitor center displaying artifacts discovered here. It contains information about the mosque and some interesting historical photos of the surrounding area, which hosted a very busy market until the 1960s.
Historic fortress in Bahrain
Bahrain has four historic forts. Two of these are in Muharraq: the Arad fortress, built by the Portuguese in the 15th century;Day century and 19Day Segibu Maher Fortress. This was to protect Muharraq Island and its pearl industry.
Rifah Fort (Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort) was built in 1812 as a private residence. But the best known is the beautiful Bahrain Fort on the north coast.
bahrain fort
If I had to visit just one historic site in Bahrain, it would be Bahrain Fort. Apart from its size and beauty (it is especially popular at sunset), it is unique in that it represents different periods of Bahrain's history.
The site was the capital of the Dilmun people, with a village and a port. It was later occupied by the Babylonians and Persians, and you can see the remains of a 3rd-century port.
The fortress you see today was built by the Portuguese as a military garrison in the mid-16th century.Day century. However, the Portuguese were driven out of Bahrain in 1602 and the fort was gradually abandoned. that much fortress museum Provides detailed information on history (closed on Mondays).
wildlife and countryside
The northern part of the island is mostly urban, while the rest is mostly scrubland and military areas. But there are also opportunities for nature observation and outdoor activities.
Walk along the waterfront in Citra Park (south of Manama) and spot flamingos and other waterfowl. From here, you can take a boat to the mangrove swamp, enjoy the peace and even spot a few herons. Budaiya has a small botanical garden and a farmers' market on Saturdays. And the Royal Camel Farm is home to the King's 600 camels (the camels are tethered but enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle).
Horseback riding is a popular activity, as are all water sports. Scuba diving is an opportunity to observe marine life and even dive for pearls. Dolphin watching trips are also available.
Practical information for visiting Bahrain
- The international airport is on Muharraq Island, but most visitors stay in hotels in Manama.
- There are plenty of choices for food and drinks.
- Although historic areas such as Muharraq old town and Manama souk can be reached on foot, the country is not for pedestrians. However, the distance is short and it is very easy to find Uber or regular taxi service. Alternatively, you can rent a car for part or all of your visit.
- Bahrain can be very hot in the summer, so air-conditioned shopping malls are popular. At other times of the year, you can also plan outdoor activities, including visits to historic sites, to start or end your day.
Karen Warren is a freelance writer, book reviewer, and novelist. She writes about her travels on her own website, WorldWideWriter. She also took most of the photos for this article.
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