The Pearling Path: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2012, is a 3.5-kilometer journey through the heart of Muharraq, Bahrain's former capital. This path weaves through the old city, connecting oyster beds, a coastal segment, the Bu Mahir fort, and 17 historical structures, each a testament to the island's pearling history. From the 2nd century until the 1930s, pearling was the backbone of Bahrain's economy and social fabric. The industry shaped the island's culture, from community structures to traditional practices. The Pearling Path is the only surviving site that presents a complete narrative of this cultural tradition. Visitors can explore the path from various starting points, often beginning at the Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre by the seashore or the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah. Follow the pearl-shaped streetlights that guide you through the streets and alleyways of historic Muharraq. The Visitor Centre, designed by Valerio Olgiati, features a unique roof structure supported by a forest of columns, creating a shaded public space and housing a museum with interactive exhibits. Along the path, discover the homes of pearl merchants, divers' residences, warehouses, and the Siyadi Mosque, each offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Bahrain's pearling era. The path also includes 16 public squares, cultural buildings, and car parking structures. The buildings are constructed mainly of coral stone, which ensured the survival of significant elements of the city. The pearling industry collapsed due to the advent of Japanese cultured pearls and the discovery of oil. Today, the Pearling Path stands as a reminder of Bahrain's rich cultural history, offering a glimpse into a time when pearling played a pivotal role in the nation's economic landscape.