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Bahrain Fort Museum: A Portal to the Dilmun Civilization

Explore Bahrain's ancient Dilmun history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site museum, showcasing artifacts from millennia of civilization.

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The Bahrain Fort Museum, located adjacent to the Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), showcases the rich history of Bahrain, particularly its role as the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilization. The museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered at the site, spanning from 2300 BC to the 18th century, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's captivating past.

A brief summary to Bahrain Fort Museum

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during summer.
  • Take advantage of the free guided tours or audio guides available at the museum to enhance your understanding of the site's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking both inside the museum and around the Qal'at al-Bahrain site.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to relax and enjoy the sea views at the Museum Café, which offers a variety of refreshments and light meals.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take a local bus towards Al Qalah; Bus 23 is a possible option. Get off at the Karbabad bus stop, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to the museum. A single bus ticket costs around 0.30 BHD. You can pay with exact change or use a GO Card.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Manama. Provide the driver with the address: Building 3618, Road 3863, Block 438, Al Qalah. The cost of a taxi from Manama to the museum typically ranges from 8 to 10 BHD, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, head west towards the Al Qalah area. Follow the signs for Qal'at al-Bahrain. There is a designated parking area near the museum entrance, and parking is generally free.

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Discover more about Bahrain Fort Museum

The Bahrain Fort Museum, opened in February 2008, is an integral part of the Qal'at al-Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The museum is located approximately 4 kilometers from Manama on the northern coast of Bahrain. It serves to preserve the ancient historic features of the site and document the archaeological periods by preserving the artifacts discovered there. The museum's collection showcases five different historical periods arranged chronologically within separate galleries. Exhibits include cuneiform inscriptions, Dilmun seals, Greek coins, and stone statues. Pottery reflects Bahrain’s historical links with China, India, and Persia during the Islamic period, while artifacts like jewelry and musical instruments represent the Portuguese era. The museum also displays ancient weaponry, including a mangonel and hand grenades. A free audio guide provides information about the site's history and significance. The museum's design features a main courtyard, a café overlooking the coastline, a lecture hall, and a gift shop. The café provides refreshments and light meals with sea views. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, offering ample opportunity to explore the exhibits. The adjacent Bahrain Fort is free to enter and is particularly stunning when illuminated at night.

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