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Bahrain National Museum: A Journey Through Time

Explore 6,000 years of Bahrain's history and culture at the Bahrain National Museum, from ancient civilizations to traditional crafts and Islamic art.

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The Bahrain National Museum in Manama is the country's largest and oldest public museum, showcasing 6,000 years of Bahrain's rich history and culture. It features artifacts from the Dilmun civilization, burial mounds, traditional crafts, and Islamic art, offering an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Bahrain National Museum

  • 6HRX+86G, Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Alcorniche, BH
  • Visit website
  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the museum's extensive collection.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Enjoy a cup of coffee at the museum café with views of the tranquil lake.
  • Take a boat tour near the museum for a unique experience.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama and are a convenient way to reach the Bahrain National Museum. A taxi ride from the city center to the museum typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares are metered, with a starting price of 2.0 BHD and an additional 1.0 BHD per kilometer. A 5km ride would cost approximately 7 BHD. Ensure the driver uses the meter.

  • Public Transport

    The Bahrain National Museum can be reached by bus from various locations in Manama. Several bus routes, including 19 and A1, stop near the museum. From the King Faisal Hwy bus stop, it is a short 160-meter walk to the museum. A single bus fare costs 0.275 BHD, and a day pass is available for 0.700 BHD. Check the bus schedules for the specific route and timings.

  • Walking

    The Bahrain National Museum is located along the Shaikh Hamad Causeway and is a 33 minute walk from Manama. From central Manama, walking to the museum is a viable option, offering a pleasant way to see the city. The walk is approximately 2.8 km and takes around 30-40 minutes. Follow the Corniche along the waterfront for a scenic route.

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Discover more about Bahrain National Museum

The Bahrain National Museum, established in 1988, stands as a cultural beacon, inviting visitors to explore the captivating history of Bahrain. Designed by Danish architects, the museum's modern architecture harmonizes with the serene Arabian Sea. The museum is home to a rich collection of archaeological artifacts acquired since 1988, covering around 6,000 years of Bahrain's history. The museum complex is divided into several halls, each dedicated to a different aspect of Bahrain's heritage. The Hall of Dilmun showcases artifacts from the ancient Dilmun civilization (5000-400 BC), highlighting its trade links with Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Discover Dilmunite stamp seals, pottery from Barbar and Saar Temples, and the Durand Stone, a basalt sculpture from the Babylonian era. The Hall of Graves focuses on the burial practices of the Dilmun civilization, featuring an actual burial mound transported from A'ali. The Hall of Tylos and Islam displays pottery, glassware, and jewelry from the Tylos period, as well as discoveries from the Khamis Mosque. Visitors can also explore halls dedicated to customs and traditions, traditional trades and crafts, and documents and manuscripts. In addition to its historical exhibits, the museum also features a Natural History Hall, showcasing Bahrain's flora and fauna. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions, an art gallery, a lecture hall, a gift shop, and a café with lake views. It is located adjacent to the Bahrain National Theatre, creating a picturesque setting.

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