Bin Matar House: A Pearl Merchant's Legacy
Discover Bahrain's pearling heritage at this beautifully restored house, once home to a prominent pearl merchant, now a museum and cultural center.
Bin Matar House, located in the heart of Muharraq, offers a captivating glimpse into Bahrain's rich pearling past. Built in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar, a leading pearl merchant, the house served as his family residence and a majlis, a gathering place for traders and community leaders. The house is part of the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which highlights the historic buildings that shaped Bahrain's pearl trade. The building itself is a stunning example of traditional Bahraini architecture, featuring intricate wooden designs, high ceilings, and craftsmanship using materials like palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum. The house has also served as a clinic and the home of the Al Eslah Club. Restored by Bahraini architect Noura Al Sayeh, Bin Matar House has become an art center. Today, Bin Matar House operates as a museum and cultural center. 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, with exhibits featuring traditional clothing, household items, and historical photographs. In addition to its historical exhibits, Bin Matar House also serves as a vibrant art space, hosting local, regional, and international exhibitions.
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (November to March) to comfortably explore the outdoor spaces.
- Check the Sheikh Ebrahim Center's website for upcoming cultural events, art exhibitions, and workshops held at Bin Matar House.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to further explore Muharraq's pearling history.
A brief summary to Bin Matar House
- 7J35+6C7, Rd No 1129, Muharraq, BH
- +97317322549
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Walking
Bin Matar House is centrally located in Muharraq, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. If you are near the Muharraq Souq, head north on Road No 1129. The house is located on this road and is easily identifiable. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the heart of the souq. Look for signs pointing towards the Pearling Path; Bin Matar House is a key site along this path.
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Public Transport
From Manama, take a bus to the Muharraq Bus Terminal. Several bus routes connect Manama and Muharraq, including the A1. From the terminal, you can either walk north along Sh Salman Avenue, then turn left onto Road 1129, or take a short taxi ride to Bin Matar House. Bus fare is approximately 0.40 BHD. The bus from Manama to Muharraq takes about 25 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Muharraq or nearby Manama, a taxi or ride-share service can take you directly to Bin Matar House. Provide the driver with the address: Road No 1129, Muharraq. Taxi/ride-share services like Uber or Careem are available. A 5km ride in Muharraq costs about 7-9 BHD. Fares may vary depending on the time of day and demand.
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Driving
If driving, navigate towards Road No 1129 in Muharraq. Note that parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited, especially during peak hours. However, a multi-story car park is located near Bin Matar House and the Green Corner, offering paid parking for visitors. Street parking may also be available, but be sure to park in designated areas and observe any parking restrictions.
