Background

Bahrain Fort Museum: A Journey Through Time

Explore 4,000 years of history at the Bahrain Fort Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the island's captivating past and cultural significance.

4.4

The Bahrain Fort Museum, an integral part of the Qal'at al-Bahrain UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an immersive journey through Bahrain's captivating past, spanning over four millennia. Located on the northern coast, approximately 4 kilometers from Manama, the museum not only preserves the ancient historic features of the site but also meticulously documents the archaeological periods through the preservation of artifacts discovered at the site.

A brief summary to Bahrain Fort Museum

Local tips

  • Visit the Bahrain Fort in the evening to see it beautifully illuminated.
  • Combine your museum visit with a walk around the Qal'at al-Bahrain archaeological site.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide to learn more about the site's history.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, the most economical way to reach the Bahrain Fort Museum is by bus. Head to the Manama bus station and board bus number 23 heading towards Al Qalah. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the Karbabad bus stop, which is the closest stop to the museum. From there, it's a 500-700 meter walk towards the fort. A single bus ticket costs 0.300 BHD. You can pay with exact change or use a GO Card, which can be purchased and topped up at the bus terminal. With the GO Card, each trip will cost 0.275 BHD. A daily cap allowing unlimited travel for one day costs 0.700 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Manama and can take you directly to the Bahrain Fort Museum. The base fare for taxis in Bahrain starts at 1 BHD for the first kilometer, with an additional charge of 0.200 BHD per kilometer thereafter. A taxi ride from Manama to the museum typically costs between 8 to 10 BHD, depending on traffic. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem.

  • Driving

    If you are driving from Manama, head west towards the Qal'at al-Bahrain. The museum is approximately 4 kilometers from Manama. Parking is available for visitors near the fort entrance. Parking is generally free. From the Bahrain International Circuit, head southwest on the main road towards the city. Continue straight for about 15 km until you reach a roundabout; take any exit to reach the fort.

Unlock the Best of Bahrain Fort Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bahrain Fort Museum

The Bahrain Fort Museum, opened in February 2008, is an essential cultural landmark in Bahrain, offering visitors a deep dive into the island's rich history. As part of the Qal'at al-Bahrain UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum showcases the continuous occupation of the site from 2300 BC to the 18th century. The museum is located on the northern coast of Bahrain, surrounded by a picturesque seascape and lush greenery. The museum's collection is arranged chronologically within separate galleries, each representing a distinct historical period. Visitors can explore artifacts from the Dilmun civilization, the Tylos period, the Islamic era, and the Portuguese occupation. Highlights include cuneiform inscriptions, Dilmun seals, Greek coins, and pottery reflecting Bahrain's historical links with China, India, and Persia. The museum also displays ancient weaponry, including a mangonel and hand grenades found at Bahrain Fort. The museum's design reflects traditional Bahraini architecture, emphasizing simplicity and harmony with the surrounding environment. The three-dimensional design seamlessly integrates interior and exterior spaces, creating a continuous flow for visitors. The rear sea-facing façade opens a direct path from the heart of the nearby village to the shoreline, fostering a connection between the community and its historical heritage. The museum also features a main courtyard leading to a café which overlooks the coastline opposite the fort, as well as a lecture hall and gift shop. Visitors can also take advantage of a free audio guide that provides information about the site's history and significance. After exploring the museum, take some time to wander through the Qal'at al-Bahrain archaeological site, walk along the ancient walls, explore the residential and commercial buildings, and imagine what life was like in this bustling port city thousands of years ago. The adjacent Bahrain Fort is free to enter and is particularly stunning when illuminated at night.

Popular Experiences near Bahrain Fort Museum

Popular Hotels near Bahrain Fort Museum

Select Currency