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Bahrain Fort: A Timeless Citadel

Explore Bahrain Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site revealing 4,000 years of history, from the Dilmun civilization to Portuguese occupation.

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Bahrain Fort, also known as Qal'at al-Bahrain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Bahrain's rich history. Dating back to 2300 BC, this ancient fort served as the capital of the Dilmun civilization and later as a Portuguese military installation. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, wander through the museum, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Bahrain Fort

Local tips

  • Visit the Bahrain Fort Museum to see artifacts from the site and learn about the fort's history.
  • Explore the fort in the evening to see it illuminated and enjoy a cooler temperature.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the large site.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide to learn about the site's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, you can reach Bahrain Fort by taking bus routes A2 or X2. These buses service Karbabad, where the fort is located. Payment via GO Card is recommended. Be prepared for a short walk from the bus stop to the fort. A single bus fare costs approximately $1.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Manama. A taxi ride from central Manama to Bahrain Fort typically costs between 2 BHD and 4 BHD. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Simply provide the driver with the destination 'Bahrain Fort' or 'Qal'at al-Bahrain' in Karbabad.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, head northwest on King Faisal Highway, following signs for Seef or Karbabad. Once in Karbabad, follow the signs to Bahrain Fort. Ample free parking is available near the fort.

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Discover more about Bahrain Fort

Bahrain Fort, or Qal'at al-Bahrain, is an archaeological site with a layered history spanning over 4,000 years. The site is a tell, an artificial mound created by successive layers of human occupation from 2300 BC to the 18th century AD. It was once the capital of the Dilmun civilization, a vital hub for trade and cultural exchange linking the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and beyond. Excavations since 1954 have unearthed streets, residential structures, monuments, and artifacts from various periods, including the Early, Middle, and Late Dilmun, Tylos, Islamic era, and Portuguese periods. The Portuguese, who occupied the fort in the 16th century, significantly shaped its current structure to protect their trade routes. Although sources suggest the fort was not very effective as a military stronghold, it remains an outstanding example of ancient architecture. Today, Bahrain Fort is well-preserved, allowing visitors to explore its historical structures. The Bahrain Fort Site Museum, opened in 2008, maintains the site's ancient features and displays artifacts from different historical periods. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the sea, palm trees, and the modern urban landscape, especially at sunset. The fort is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a popular destination for evening walks.

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