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Bahrain National Museum: A Cultural Gateway

Explore 6,000 years of Bahrain's history, culture, and traditions at this landmark museum on Manama's scenic waterfront.

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The Bahrain National Museum in Manama is the country's largest and oldest public museum, offering a comprehensive journey through 6,000 years of Bahrain's history and culture. Opened in 1988, it showcases artifacts from the ancient Dilmun civilization to the pre-industrial era, housed in a striking modern building overlooking Muharraq Island.

A brief summary to Bahrain National Museum

  • 6HRX+86G, Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Alcorniche, BH
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • Enjoy a coffee or snack at the museum café with views of the artificial lake.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama city center, the Bahrain National Museum is accessible by bus. Several bus routes, including the 19 and A1, stop near the museum. A single trip costs 0.300 BHD. Alternatively, a GO Card can be purchased for 0.500 BHD, reducing the single trip fare to 0.275 BHD and offering a daily cap of 0.700 BHD. Disembark at the King Faisal Highway bus stop and walk approximately 160 meters towards the museum.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama. A taxi ride from the city center to the Bahrain National Museum typically costs between 2 BHD and 4 BHD, depending on the distance and traffic. Ensure the driver uses the meter. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem also operate in Manama.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach the Bahrain National Museum via the Shaikh Hamad Causeway. The museum has a dedicated parking area for visitors, and parking is generally free. Be aware that parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or on weekends. From the parking area, follow the signs to the museum entrance.

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Discover more about Bahrain National Museum

The Bahrain National Museum, inaugurated in 1988, stands as a premier cultural institution, preserving and showcasing Bahrain's rich heritage. Designed by Danish architects, its white travertine marble facade makes it a landmark on Manama's waterfront. The museum complex comprises two interconnected buildings, spanning 20,000 square meters. The main building features permanent and temporary exhibition halls, an art gallery, a lecture hall, a gift shop, and a café. The administrative building houses offices, research areas, conservation labs, and collection storage. The museum's collection spans 6,000 years of Bahrain's history, brought to life in halls dedicated to Graves, Dilmun, Tylos and Islam, Customs and Traditions, Traditional Trades and Crafts, and Documents and Manuscripts. Highlights include artifacts from the Dilmun civilization, ancient burial mounds, and displays on Bahrain's pearling history. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing traditional Bahraini crafts, Islamic art, and the natural history of the island. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Visitors can admire displays of pottery, traditional attire, ancient manuscripts, and models of a traditional Bahraini souq. The museum also features rare manuscripts, ancient Qurans, and important documents from the Al Khalifa family era.

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