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Bahrain Fort: A Timeless Citadel

Explore 4,000 years of history at Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient capital of the Dilmun civilization.

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Bahrain Fort, also known as Qal'at al-Bahrain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Bahrain's layered history. Dating back to 2300 BC, this ancient site served as the capital of the Dilmun civilization and later as a Portuguese military base. Explore the well-preserved ruins and museum to uncover the island's rich past.

A brief summary to Bahrain Fort

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Bahrain Fort Museum to see artifacts from the Dilmun era and learn about the fort's history.
  • Explore the fort in the evening to see it beautifully illuminated.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide available at the museum for a more informative experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take bus A2 or X2 towards Karbabad. Get off at the Karbabad bus stop, which is a short walk (approximately 500-700 meters) from the fort. A single bus ticket costs around 0.5 BHD.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Manama. A short taxi ride from Manama city center to Bahrain Fort typically costs between 2-3 BHD.

Unlock the Best of Bahrain Fort

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Discover more about Bahrain Fort

Bahrain Fort, or Qal'at al-Bahrain, stands as a powerful testament to the island's rich and complex history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the northern coast of Bahrain, is more than just a fort; it's an archaeological tell, an artificial mound built up over millennia by successive layers of human occupation. Excavations have revealed streets, residential structures, commercial buildings, religious monuments, and military installations dating back to 2300 BC. Originally the capital of the Dilmun civilization, a major trading hub connecting Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, the fort has been occupied by Kassites, Greeks, Persians, and Portuguese, each leaving their mark on the landscape. The present fort dates back to the 6th century AD, with significant modifications made during the Portuguese occupation in the 16th century. A visit to Bahrain Fort offers a unique opportunity to explore these layers of history. Wander through the well-preserved ruins, imagine life in the ancient city, and take in the panoramic views of the sea and surrounding palm groves. The Bahrain Fort Museum, opened in 2008, houses a remarkable collection of artifacts discovered at the site, providing further insight into Bahrain's past. The museum also offers a free audio guide. Don't miss the fort's impressive nighttime illumination, which creates a magical atmosphere for evening strolls.

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