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Traditional Houses of Muharraq: A Journey into Bahrain's Pearling History

Explore Muharraq's traditional houses, a UNESCO site showcasing Bahrain's pearling history, architecture, and cultural heritage in a historic setting.

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Step back in time and explore the captivating Traditional Houses of Muharraq, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Bahrain's rich pearling past. Wander through the narrow alleyways and discover meticulously restored homes that showcase the unique architecture and lifestyle of a bygone era.

A brief summary to Traditional Houses of Muharraq

  • 7J36+MPP, Muharraq, BH
  • 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the narrow alleyways and exploring the historic houses.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more pleasant experience.
  • Check the opening hours of individual houses and cultural centers before your visit.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the houses.
  • Respect the local culture and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Traditional Houses of Muharraq are best explored on foot. From the Shaikh Ebrahim Center, simply walk south along the narrow streets, following the signs for the Pearling Path. The houses are clustered within a short distance of each other, allowing for easy exploration. Allow ample time to wander and discover hidden gems along the way.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, disembark at the Muharraq Bus Terminal. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the heart of the Traditional Houses. Follow Sh Salman Avenue, then turn left onto Palace Avenue. The houses will be on your right. A single bus fare within Muharraq costs approximately 0.200 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. From Bahrain International Airport, a taxi ride to the Traditional Houses will take approximately 10-15 minutes and cost around 3-5 BHD. From Manama, the fare will be approximately 7-9 BHD. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Traditional Houses of Muharraq

The Traditional Houses of Muharraq, located in the former capital of Bahrain, offer a captivating journey into the island's rich history and cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the unique architecture and lifestyle of the island's pearling past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the essence of Bahrain's rich past. Muharraq was once the heart of Bahrain's thriving pearling industry, which flourished between the 1850s and 1930s. The traditional houses were designed to accommodate the lifestyle of pearl divers and traders, with ground floors used for storing diving equipment and upper floors serving as living spaces. The houses were built close together, forming narrow alleyways that provided shade and protection from the harsh sun. The architecture of Muharraq reflects the island's cosmopolitan history, blending Persian, Arab, and Indian design elements. Coral stone, sourced from the nearby sea, was a common building material, lending a unique texture and character to the houses. Elaborately carved wooden facades, latticed windows, and ornate balconies add to the aesthetic charm. Wind towers, once essential for cooling the homes, rise majestically above the rooftops. Several of the Traditional Houses of Muharraq have been transformed into museums and cultural centers, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the island's heritage. The Shaikh Isa bin Ali House is a prime example of Gulf Islamic architecture, featuring four courtyards, carved wooden doors, and perforated gypsum panels. The Bin Matar House provides insight into Bahrain's pearling history. Other notable houses include Kurar House, Nukhida House, and the Mohammed bin Faris House, each showcasing different aspects of Bahrain's heritage. Walking through the narrow alleyways of Muharraq is like stepping into a living museum. The meticulously restored houses, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, offer a glimpse into the lives of wealthy merchants, pearl divers, and prominent families who shaped the island's identity.

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