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Delmun Burial Mounds: Echoes of Bahrain's Ancient Past

Explore the ancient Dilmun civilization at Bahrain's burial mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a unique glimpse into the island's Bronze Age past.

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The Delmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Hamad Town, Bahrain, are a sprawling necropolis dating back to the Dilmun civilization (2200-1750 BCE). These thousands of ancient mounds scattered across 21 archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the island's rich history and its role as a major trade hub during the Bronze Age.

A brief summary to Delmun Burial Mounds - Hamad Town 2

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and capture the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and requires some walking to explore the mounds.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months, as there is limited shade on the site.
  • Consider combining your visit with a trip to the Bahrain National Museum in Manama to gain deeper insights into the Dilmun civilization and Bahrain's history.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Hamad Town, a taxi or ride-share is the most convenient way to reach the Delmun Burial Mounds. Direct the driver to '4F9X+XP4, Hamad Town'. The ride typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between 1-2 BHD for the short trip.

  • Public Transport

    If using public transport from Hamad Town, take Bus Route 66 towards the Northern Region. Alight at the nearest stop to the 4F9X+XP4 coordinates (ask the driver for assistance). From the bus stop, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the mounds. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.30 BHD.

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Discover more about Delmun Burial Mounds - Hamad Town 2

The Dilmun Burial Mounds stand as silent witnesses to Bahrain's pivotal role in ancient history. Constructed between 2200 and 1750 BCE, these mounds represent one of the most extensive and significant prehistoric cemeteries in the world. Over 11,000 mounds have been identified across 21 archaeological sites, showcasing a density unmatched elsewhere. This vast "city of the dead" speaks volumes about Bahrain's importance as a cultural and economic hub during the Bronze Age. The mounds were built using layers of limestone and earth, creating durable tombs. Within these mounds, archaeologists have discovered pottery, jewelry, and tools, some of which are displayed in Bahrain's museums. The size and complexity of the mounds reflect the social status of those interred within. Royal tombs, for example, reach up to 12 meters in height. Originally constructed as cylindrical towers, erosion has gradually transformed the mounds into the rounded shapes seen today. Visiting the Delmun Burial Mounds is an immersive experience. As you wander among these ancient monuments, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. The sheer number of mounds creates a haunting yet beautiful landscape. While some may appear as simple heaps of earth, others reveal more complex structures.

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