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Bin Matar House: Echoes of Pearling Heritage

Explore Bahrain's pearling history at Bin Matar House, a beautifully restored museum showcasing traditional architecture and cultural heritage.

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Bin Matar House, located in the heart of Muharraq, is a beautifully restored traditional Bahraini house that stands as a reminder of Bahrain's pearling legacy. Built in 1905, it was once the residence of Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar, a prominent pearl merchant. Today, it serves as a cultural landmark and exhibition space, showcasing Bahrain's rich pearling history and traditional architecture.

A brief summary to Bin Matar House

  • Monday 8 am-2 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-2 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-2 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore other historical buildings in Muharraq.
  • Check the Shaikh Ebrahim Center's website for information on current exhibitions and cultural events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bin Matar House is located in the heart of Muharraq, easily accessible on foot from many points within the old city. From the Muharraq Souq, walk north along Sh Salman Avenue, then turn right onto Rd No 1129. The house will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus terminal is Muharraq Bus Terminal, a short walk from Bin Matar House. From the terminal, walk south along Sh Salman Avenue, then turn left onto Rd No 1129. The house will be on your right. Bus routes A1 and 12 serve the Muharraq Bus Terminal. A single bus fare within Muharraq costs approximately 0.30 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Muharraq. A short taxi ride from Bahrain International Airport to Bin Matar House will cost approximately 2-3 BHD. From Manama, a taxi ride to Bin Matar House will cost approximately 9-11 BHD. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Bin Matar House

Nestled in the heart of Muharraq, the Bin Matar House offers a captivating glimpse into Bahrain's rich pearling past. Constructed in 1905, this traditional Bahraini house was once the residence and majlis (gathering place) of Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar, a leading figure in the island's thriving pearl trade. The house exemplifies the unique architectural style of the era, utilizing materials such as palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum. For decades, the Bin Matar family called this house home, witnessing firsthand the ebb and flow of the pearling industry. In the 1940s, it even served as a clinic, and later as the home of the Al Eslah Club. With the decline of the pearling industry, the house eventually fell into disuse and faced demolition. Fortunately, the Sheikh Ebrahim Center for Culture and Research recognized the historical and architectural significance of the Bin Matar House and undertook a meticulous restoration project. The restoration ensured that the house would continue to stand as a testament to Bahrain's cultural heritage. Reopened as a museum in 2009, the Bin Matar House quickly became an integral part of Muharraq's 'Pearl Trail,' now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, the Bin Matar House operates as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of pearl diving and trading. The permanent pearl exhibition explains the history of pearls and pearl fishing in Bahrain, with a special focus on the Bin Matar family's contributions. The museum also showcases the traditional lifestyle and architectural styles of the region. The house also hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

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