House of Architectural Heritage
House of Architectural Heritage: A Window into Muharraq's Past
Bin Matar House: A Window to Bahrain's Pearling Past
Explore Bahrain's pearling past at this beautifully restored house, now a museum and cultural center on the UNESCO World Heritage Pearling Path.
Bin Matar House, located in Muharraq, is a beautifully restored traditional Bahraini house that once belonged to a prominent pearl merchant, Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar. Today, it stands as a cultural landmark and museum, showcasing Bahrain's rich pearling history and traditional architecture. It's a key site along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Bin Matar House
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
Walking
Bin Matar House is centrally located in Muharraq, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. If you're in the Muharraq Souq area, head east towards 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.
Public Transport
From Manama, you can take a bus to Muharraq. The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $1. Buses depart from Sh Isa Ave-2 every 20 minutes and arrive at Al Muharraq station. From the Al Muharraq bus station, Bin Matar House is a short walk away. Alternatively, from the Central Market-1/Muharraq stop, Al Hediya Al Khalifia School is a 6-minute walk, Muharraq Bus Terminal is a 7-minute walk, and Sh Salman Avenue/Muharraq is a 9-minute walk.
Driving
If driving, navigate to Road No 1129 in Muharraq. 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. Parking fees at this facility are still being determined, but expect to pay a nominal hourly or daily rate.
Local tips
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Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for a comfortable experience exploring the outdoor spaces and the surrounding Pearling Path.
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Check the Sheikh Ebrahim Center's website for upcoming cultural events, workshops, and art exhibitions held at Bin Matar House.
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Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path to explore other historical houses and learn more about Muharraq's heritage.
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Entrance fee is 2 BD, but Bahrainis may enter for free or at a reduced rate of 1 BD.
Discover more about Bin Matar House
Step back in time at Bin Matar House, a meticulously restored monument to Bahrain's pearling legacy. Constructed in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein Bin Matar, a leading figure in the pearl trade, the house served as his family residence and a 'majlis,' a gathering place for traders and community leaders. The building showcases traditional Bahraini architecture, using materials like palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum.
For decades, Bin Matar House was a hub of social and commercial activity, witnessing the ebb and flow of Bahrain's thriving pearl industry. In the 1940s, it even served as a clinic, and later, the home of the Al Eslah Club. With the decline of the pearling industry, the house faced demolition until the Sheikh Ebrahim Center for Culture and Research recognized its significance and undertook a careful restoration.
Today, Bin Matar House operates as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of pearl diving and trading. The permanent pearl exhibition explains the history of pearls and pearl fishing in Bahrain, with a focus on the Bin Matar family's contributions. The museum also showcases traditional clothing, household items, and historical photographs. The house is a key stop on the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A brief summary to Bin Matar House
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