Bahrain National Museum: A Cultural Gateway
Discover 6,000 years of Bahrain's history and culture at the Bahrain National Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts and traditional heritage.
The Bahrain National Museum, inaugurated in 1988, stands as a cultural beacon in Manama, inviting visitors to explore the captivating history of Bahrain. Designed by Danish architects Krohn & Hartvig Rasmussen, the museum's striking white travertine marble facade is situated on an artificial peninsula overlooking Muharraq Island. The museum complex comprises two interconnected buildings with approximately 20,000 square meters of floor space. Inside, you'll find a rich collection of artifacts that narrate Bahrain's story from the ancient Dilmun civilization to its pre-industrial past. The museum houses six main halls: Hall of Graves, Dilmun, Tylos and Islam, Customs and Traditions, Traditional Crafts, and Documents and Manuscripts. Explore the fascinating exhibits, including Dilmun seals, pottery, and artifacts that highlight Bahrain's connections with ancient civilizations like Babylon and Magan. Discover models of a traditional marketplace, showcasing Bahrain's customs and crafts before the oil era. The Hall of Tylos and Islam features pottery, glassware, and jewelry from Bahrain's Tylos period, reflecting the cultural diversity of the time. The Hall of Documents and Manuscripts exhibits rare copies of the Qur'an and historical documents. In addition to its permanent collections, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, an art gallery, a lecture hall, a gift shop, and a café with lake views. The Natural History Hall displays Bahrain's flora and fauna. The museum also offers boat trips to the Bu Maher Fort on Muharraq island, part of the Bahrain Pearling Trail. With its extensive collection and engaging exhibits, the Bahrain National Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Bahrain's rich cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection and exhibits.
- Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
- Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Bahrain National Theatre or the Pearling Path in Muharraq.
- Take advantage of the free parking available at the museum if you are driving.
A brief summary to Bahrain National Museum
- 6HRX+86G, Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Alcorniche, BH
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Bahrain National Theatre or the Al Fateh Corniche, the museum is a short walk away. Head east along Shaikh Hamad Causeway, keeping the water to your right. The museum will be on your left.
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Public Transport
From the Manama bus station, catch bus routes 12, 17, 19 or A1. 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.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. Simply request a ride to the Bahrain National Museum. A 5km ride in Manama costs about 7 BHD. Be sure that the driver turns on the meter.
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Driving
If driving, navigate towards the Shaikh Hamad Causeway. The museum is located on an artificial peninsula just off the causeway. Free parking is available at the Bahrain National Museum. Be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak hours.
