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Dilmun Burial Mounds: Ancient Echoes of Bahrain

Explore Bahrain's ancient past at the Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and testament to the island's rich history.

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The Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bahrain, are a vast necropolis dating back to the Dilmun civilization (2200-1750 BCE). These thousands of ancient mounds offer a glimpse into the burial practices and societal structure of this early civilization, which thrived as a key trading hub in the region.

A brief summary to Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the mounds.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Bahrain National Museum to learn more about the Dilmun civilization.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the mounds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama Central Bus Station, take a bus towards Isa Town. From Isa Town Bus Terminal, transfer to another bus heading to A'ali. Alight near the A'ali area and then take a short taxi ride (approximately 5 minutes) or arrange for a local ride-sharing service to the Dilmun Burial Mounds. Alternatively, from Jid Ali, take Bus 12 towards Manama and disembark at the Buri bus stop. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride (1-2 BHD) to the mounds. Bus fare is approximately 0.3 BHD per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Manama, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Careem or Uber) provides a direct route to the Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field. Input the destination as '4GW4+MWQ, Buri' or provide the coordinates 26.1467201, 50.5073581 to your driver. The ride typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Confirm the fare before starting the journey. The approximate cost is 3-5 BHD.

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Discover more about Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

The Dilmun Burial Mounds, scattered across 21 archaeological sites in western Bahrain, stand as silent witnesses to the island's rich history. Constructed between 2200 and 1750 BCE, these mounds served as burial sites for the Dilmun civilization, a significant Bronze Age culture that flourished due to Bahrain's strategic location as a trade hub. The sheer scale of the necropolis is astounding, with over 11,774 mounds of varying sizes and complexities. Originally built as cylindrical low towers, the mounds evolved over time, reflecting the social hierarchy of Dilmun society. Royal mounds, the grandest of all, were constructed as two-story sepulchral towers, showcasing elaborate burial chambers and ziggurat-like shapes. In contrast, ordinary tombs are simpler mounds, yet their sheer number transforms the landscape into an undulating, surreal terrain. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a wealth of artifacts within the mounds, including pottery, jewelry, and tools, providing valuable insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and burial practices of the Dilmun people. The density and unique characteristics of these burial mounds, including their alcove-equipped burial chambers, are unmatched globally. While the mounds themselves may appear unassuming at first glance, their collective impact is profound, offering a tangible connection to Bahrain's ancient past and its role as a vital crossroads of civilization.

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