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The Pearling Path, Muharraq: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Explore Bahrain's Pearling Path: A UNESCO site revealing the island's pearl diving history and cultural heritage in Muharraq.

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The Pearling Path in Muharraq, Bahrain, is a 3.5 km trail showcasing the island's rich history as a center of the pearl trade. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises oyster beds, coastal segments, the Bu Mahir fort, and 17 historical buildings, offering a glimpse into the lives of pearl merchants, divers, and boat builders.

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

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the Pearling Path, as the trail covers a significant distance through the old city.
  • Check the official Pearling Path website for information on guided tours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pearling Path can be explored on foot, following the pearl-shaped streetlights that guide visitors through the historic streets and alleyways of Muharraq. Starting from either the Qal'at Bu Mahir Visitor's Centre by the seashore or the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre near Suq Al Qaysariyyah, the path leads to various historical buildings and landmarks. Allow ample time to explore the 3.5 km path and its many points of interest.

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take a bus to Muharraq. Bahrain Transportation operates buses from Sh Isa Ave-2 in Manama to Al Muharraq every 20 minutes for approximately $1. From the Muharraq bus terminal, you can then walk or take a short taxi ride to the Pearling Path Visitor and Experience Centre to begin your exploration.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Manama and Muharraq. A taxi ride from Manama to Muharraq typically costs between $9 and $11 and takes approximately 6 minutes. From anywhere in Muharraq, a taxi to the Pearling Path should cost no more than $6. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about The Pearling Path

The Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a poignant reminder of Bahrain's pearling legacy, which shaped its economy and cultural identity for millennia. Located in Muharraq, the former capital, this 3.5 km path weaves through the heart of the old city, connecting significant sites that once thrived on the pearl trade. The path includes three oyster beds in the northern waters of Bahrain, a segment of the coast and the seafront Bu Mahir fort at the southern tip of Muharraq Island, and seventeen buildings in the historical section of Muharraq. These buildings, connected by the visitor pathway, include the residences and majlises of pearl merchants, traders and divers, along with trade establishments, storage houses, and the Siyadi family mosque. Visitors can explore the traditional market, discover the homes of pearl merchants and divers, and learn about the intricate trade networks that spanned continents. The path also features modern infrastructure, such as public squares named after pearl types, shaded by trees and benches. Lampposts resembling floating pearls guide visitors through the labyrinthine lanes, while historic markers and detailed descriptions provide context. The Pearling Path offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the cultural and social impact of the pearling industry on Bahraini society. It is a testament to the island's rich heritage and the enduring connection between its people and the sea.

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