Popular Destinations in Bahrain
Manama
Bahrain’s historic capital, Manama is a modern oasis of the Middle East
which caters to varied preferences. The small capital is an atmospheric
place owing to its buzzing street life. With over 6,000 years of history,
Manama is lined with an array of historic, archaeological, and
architectural landmarks such as the the Al-Fateh Mosque, Khamis Mosque,
Bahrain Synagogue, Bab Al Bahrain, and Qal’at al-Bahrain Fort. The
impressive Qal’at al-Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built
by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The cultural city is also
home to a number of state-of-the-art museums such as the Beit Al Quran
(Museum for ancient Quran manuscripts), and Abdullah Al Zayed House for
Bahraini Press Heritage. Most notable is the acclaimed Bahrain National
Museum which displays artefacts across its 6,000-year history, even from
the ancient Dilmun civilization.
Muharraq
Located on the Muharraq Island, Muharraq city is well known for its winding
narrow alleyways lined with traditional Bahraini houses. The Sheikh Isa Bin
Ali House with its intricately carved doors and ornate panelling is the
most famous landmark of the city. Nearby, visitors will find Siyadi House,
a 19th century traditional complex encompassing the oldest
mosque in the city, Siyadi Mosque. Like other gulf cities, Muharraq has
multiple vibrant souks, the Souk al Qaisariya and the Muharraq Souk are
full of vendors selling everything from pearls, and spices to handwoven
fabrics. The Al Oraifi Museum showcases artworks related to the ancient
Dilmun civilization, and has several pieces by the internationally reputed
Bahraini artist, Rashid Al Oraifi. Other major landmarks in Muharraq are Bu Maher Fort, Sail Monument,
Mohammed Bin Faris House for Sut Music, and Marina Beach Garden Park.
Arad
Located on the Muharraq Island, Arad is a town which lies northwest of Hidd
and east of Muharraq City. Originally, a stand-alone island, Arad joined
the Muharraq island over the course of the 20th century. The
town used to be a small farming village inhabited by Baharna Shia. A part
of the Muharraq Governorate, Arad eventually expanded to include
middle-class housing, which led to migration of a large Sunni population. A
top tourist attraction, the 15th century Arad Fort is emblematic
of the city. Overlooking Muharraq’s sea passages, the Islamic style Arad
Fort is among the most important fortified castles in the country. Other
tourist attractions in Arad are the Al Muharraq Stadium, headquarters of
the Islamic Society, Shaikh Ebrahim Center, Halat Nuaim Island, Hanging
Garden, and Bait Shaikh Salman.