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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 former residence of the Al Khalifa family with stunning views.

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Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort, is a well-preserved historical landmark in the heart of Riffa, Bahrain. Built in 1812, the fort 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 cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover within the fort.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
  • Visit during the cooler months for a more pleasant experience exploring the outdoor areas of the fort.
  • Check for any special events or guided tours for a more informative visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take a bus to Isa Town terminal. Several bus routes connect Manama and Isa Town, with departures every 20 minutes. From Isa Town terminal, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort in Riffa. The bus fare from Manama to Isa Town is approximately $1. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bahrain. A taxi ride from Manama to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort in Riffa typically takes around 15 minutes and costs between $19 and $23. Taxi fares in Riffa start at 0.20 BHD per km. A 5km ride in Riffa will cost approximately 9 BHD. You can also use ride-hailing apps to book a taxi.

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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, stands as a majestic testament to Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Riffa, this historical landmark 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 as both a defensive structure and the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa family. This dual purpose 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. Throughout its history, the fort has undergone several renovations and restorations. In the early 20th century, Sheikh Humood bin Subah Al Khalifa undertook renovations to parts of the fort during his residence. By the end of the 20th century, the fort had fallen into disrepair, but it was later extensively restored and reopened to visitors, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The fort's architecture is a blend of traditional Bahraini design and military functionality. Its square ground plan features two circular and two rectangular towers at its corners, 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. Today, Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about the Al Khalifa family. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, which overlooks the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley. The fort is easily accessible from Manama.

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