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Bin Matar House: A Pearl Merchant's Legacy

Explore Bahrain's pearling history at Bin Matar House, a beautifully restored heritage site and cultural center in historic Muharraq.

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Step back in time at Bin Matar House in Muharraq, a beautifully restored traditional Bahraini home showcasing the history of the Bin Matar family, prominent pearl merchants. Explore Bahrain's pearling past through art exhibitions and cultural events in this charming heritage site.

A brief summary to Bin Matar House

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) to comfortably explore the outdoor spaces.
  • Check the Sheikh Ebrahim Center's website for upcoming cultural events, art exhibitions, and workshops held at Bin Matar House.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to further explore Muharraq's pearling history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bin Matar House is located in the heart of Muharraq, easily accessible on foot from the Muharraq Souq. Head north on Road No 1129 for approximately 1 kilometer. The walk offers a glimpse into the traditional Bahraini life. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take bus A1 or A2 to Muharraq. From the Muharraq Bus Terminal, you can walk north along Sh Salman Avenue, then turn left onto Road 1129, or take a short taxi ride to Bin Matar House. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.30 BHD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share service can take you directly to Bin Matar House from anywhere in Muharraq or nearby Manama. Provide the driver with the address: Road No 1129, Muharraq. A 5km taxi ride in Muharraq costs approximately 7-9 BHD. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem are also available.

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Discover more about Bin Matar House

Bin Matar House, also known as Beit Matar, stands as a monument to Bahrain's pearling past. Constructed in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein 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 house is part of the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by Bahraini architect Mussa bin Hamad, the building exemplifies traditional Bahraini architecture, utilizing materials such as palm tree trunks, sea-stone, and gypsum. For decades, Bin Matar House was a hub of social and commercial activity. In the 1940s, it even served as a clinic run by physician Dr. Bandar Kar, before becoming the home of the Al Eslah Club from the 1950s to the 1980s. 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 lifestyle and architectural styles of the region, with exhibits featuring traditional clothing, household items, and historical photographs. In addition to its historical exhibits, Bin Matar House also serves as an art space, hosting local, regional, and international exhibitions.

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