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Qal’at Bahrain (Bahrain Fort)
Bahrain Fort is one of the top destinations for visitors and residents alike. The grounds is an archaeological treasure trove with evidence of human habitation stretching back to almost 3000 BC and is one of the sites widely considered to be possibly the capital of the semi-mythical ancient land known as “Dilmun.” Dilmun was, for a long time, only known about in writings about it, its region is a bit disputed but evidence found at Bahrain Fort and around it points to its actual existence, which is an archaeologically ongoing investigation. More interesting finds from this area and relating to Dilmun can be viewed at the Bahrain National Museum as well. While only some 30% of the area has been effectively excavated the most apparent and widely photographed structure is the recently restored Portuguese Fort, a remnant of Portuguese colonization in the Arabian Gulf region (and Bahrain) dating from the late 16th century onward. The area makes for a nice morning or sunset tour and there’s lots of ground to explore and most visitors are free to do what they like with little interference (though impromptu excavating is of course frowned upon). There is a little museum as part of the fort as well with a small but worthwhile exhibit. While you can book a tour or bus or driver to take you you can also explore the site on your own. It’s about 15 minutes from downtown Manama and everyone in Bahrain knows where it is so it’s almost impossible to get lost. Head West from Manama and follow signs to the fort. There is still no admission fee and the grounds are lightly monitored but they do ask visitors to limit their explorations to the daylight hours. Bring plenty of water, sun protection and snacks if traveling during the day though they do have a small café where you can buy drinks and snacks. Sometimes the inner fort is closed during major public holidays so check beforehand. <---back to Bahrain Sights page
pictures courtesy cosmopolitician
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