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Bin Matar House: Echoes of Bahrain's Pearling Past

Discover Bahrain's pearling heritage at Bin Matar House, a beautifully restored museum and cultural center in historic Muharraq.

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Step back in time at Bin Matar House, a beautifully restored traditional Bahraini home in Muharraq. Once the residence of a prominent pearl merchant, it now serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the island's rich pearling history and traditional architecture.

A brief summary to Bin Matar House

  • Monday 8 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for a more comfortable experience exploring the outdoor spaces.
  • Check the Shaikh Ebrahim Center's website for upcoming cultural events, workshops, and art exhibitions held at Bin Matar House.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path to explore other historical houses and learn more about Muharraq's heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bin Matar House is located in the heart of Muharraq, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions and points of interest within the old city. If you are already exploring the Pearling Path, simply follow the marked route. Look for the distinctive pearl-shaped lampposts that guide you along the path. From the Shaikh Isa bin Ali House, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Head south, keeping an eye out for signs directing you towards the Bin Matar House. The house is located on Road No 1129. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Bahrain's public bus network offers an affordable way to reach Bin Matar House. From Manama, take a bus from Sh Isa Ave-2 to Al Muharraq. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes. From the Muharraq Bus Terminal, Bin Matar House is a short walk away. Bus tickets cost approximately $1 BHD. Check the Moovit app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Muharraq. A taxi ride from Bahrain International Airport to Bin Matar House costs around 6 BHD. From Manama, a taxi to Muharraq will cost approximately 9-11 BHD and take around 6 minutes. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Bin Matar House

Bin Matar House, located in the heart of Muharraq, offers a captivating glimpse into Bahrain's rich pearling history. Built in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar, a leading pearl merchant, the house originally served as his family residence and a majlis, a gathering place for traders and community leaders. The building itself is a stunning example of traditional Bahraini architecture, constructed with materials such as palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum. Designed by renowned Bahraini architect Mussa bin Hamad, the two-story structure features teak beams, airy verandas (known as "liwan"), and stain-patterned glass, exuding an old-world charm. The house's strategic location, originally surrounded by the sea on three sides, highlighted the importance of maritime trade to the Bin Matar family's prosperity. As Bahrain's economy shifted away from pearling, the house fell into disuse and was at risk of demolition. However, the Shaikh Ebrahim Center for Culture and Research stepped in to rescue and restore the building, completing the project in 2009. Today, Bin Matar House operates as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of pearl diving and trading. The museum's exhibits delve into various aspects of pearling, from the arduous process of diving for oysters to the intricate methods of pearl classification and trade. Visitors can also explore the beautifully restored rooms, each offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Bin Matar family. The house also hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and workshops, making it a key destination for those exploring Bahrain's maritime and trading legacy.

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