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The Pearling Path: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discover Bahrain's rich pearling history on a 3.5km path through Muharraq, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing historic architecture and cultural heritage.

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The Pearling Path in Muharraq, Bahrain, is a 3.5 km UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of Bahrain's pearling era from the 2nd century to the 1930s. The path connects historic houses, oyster beds, and cultural sites, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to The Pearling Path

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Pearling Path is a 3.5 km walking trail through the old city of Muharraq.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more pleasant walking experience.
  • Start your journey at one of the visitor centers: Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre or the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah.
  • Follow the pearl-shaped streetlights to navigate the path through the streets and alleyways of historic Muharraq.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pearling Path is designed as a walking trail, allowing visitors to explore the historic sites at their own pace. Starting from either the Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre by the sea or the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah, follow the pearl-shaped streetlights that mark the route. The path winds through the streets of Muharraq, connecting the various historical buildings and landmarks. Allow approximately 3 hours to complete the entire path.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from Manama or other parts of Bahrain, take a public bus to Muharraq Bus Terminal. From the terminal, it's a short walk to the beginning of the Pearling Path. Bus routes A1 and 12 connect Muharraq Bus Terminal to other key locations. A single bus fare costs approximately BD 0.300.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bahrain. From Bahrain International Airport to the Pearling Path in Muharraq, a taxi ride typically costs between BD 2.250 and BD 3. Several car parks are available near the Pearling Path.

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Discover more about The Pearling Path

The Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Muharraq, Bahrain, offers a profound journey into the island's pearling history. This 3.5-kilometer path weaves through the old city, connecting significant buildings and sites that once thrived during the pearling boom, which lasted from the 2nd century until the 1930s. The path showcases the architecture and urban heritage of old Muharraq, highlighting the social and economic importance of the pearl trade. As you walk along the path, marked by pearl-shaped streetlights, you'll encounter historic houses of pearl merchants, traditional markets like the Suq al Qayssareyah, and the Bu Mahir Fort. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the lives of the pearl divers, traders, and their families who shaped Bahrain's identity. The Pearling Path also includes three oyster beds in Bahrain's northern waters, a segment of the coast, and 17 buildings in the historic section of Muharraq. The Pearling Path Visitor Centre, designed by Valerio Olgiati, provides an entrance to the path and shelters the ruins of Amarat Yousif Ali Fakhro, a historic housing block. The path serves as a reminder of Bahrain's cultural traditions and the wealth generated by the pearl trade.

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