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Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort: A Historical Landmark in Riffa

Explore Bahrain's history at Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort in Riffa, a beautifully restored 19th-century fortress with panoramic views.

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Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort, is a well-preserved historical landmark in the city of Riffa, Bahrain. Built in 1812 by Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fatih, it served as both a defensive structure and the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa family. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Bahrain's rich history and the legacy of its rulers.

A brief summary to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many areas to explore within the fort.
  • Check for any cultural events or exhibitions that might be happening during your visit to enhance your experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and breathtaking views from the fort's vantage points.
  • Respect the cultural and historical significance of the fort by dressing modestly and refraining from loud or disruptive behavior.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort using public transport, you can take a bus to Riffa. From Manama, you can take Bus 11 or 23 towards Riffa. Alternatively, from Jebel Dukhan, take Bus No. 66 towards Riffa. Get off at the Riffa stop, and from there, you can either walk (approximately 1.5 kilometers) or take a local taxi to reach the fort. The bus fare is approximately $1. A taxi from the Riffa stop to the fort will cost around 1-2 BHD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Riffa, a taxi or ride-share to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort is readily available. Provide the driver with the address: Rd No 368, Riffa 903. The fare should be approximately 3-5 BHD depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, head southwest towards Riffa. Follow signs for Road 368. Continue on Road 368 until you see signs for Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort. There is parking available nearby.

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Discover more about Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort or Qal'at ar-Riffa, is a majestic testament to Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Riffa, the fort dates back to 1812 when it was constructed during the reign of Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Al Khalifa. The fort's strategic location on a cliff offers commanding views of the desert valley that stretches between East Riffa and West Riffa, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Originally built on the foundations of an earlier 17th-century fortification, Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort served a dual purpose: a defensive structure and the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa family. This distinguishes it from other forts in Bahrain, highlighting its significance as a center of power and a symbol of the Al Khalifa dynasty's legacy. In 1848, Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932, was born within the fort's walls, further cementing its place in Bahraini history. The fort has undergone several renovations and restorations throughout its history. In the early 20th century, Sheikh Humood bin Subah Al Khalifa renovated parts of the fort during his residence. By the end of the 20th century, the fort had fallen into disrepair but was later extensively restored and reopened to visitors. The architecture blends traditional Bahraini design and military functionality. The square ground plan features two circular and two rectangular towers, with the northeastern tower serving as the gate tower. Inside, three courtyards provide a glimpse into the fort's layout and the daily life of its inhabitants. Visitors can explore the various sections of the fort, including the living quarters, prayer area, and storage facilities. A modern section within the fort displays artifacts related to the royal family, including swords (some over 140 years old), jewelry, daggers, hunting tools, and falconry equipment. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, which overlooks the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley.

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