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Dilmun Burial Mounds: Echoes of an Ancient Civilization

Explore ancient burial grounds dating back 4,000 years, revealing Bahrain's Dilmun civilization and its unique burial traditions.

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Explore the Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bahrain, dating back to 2200-1750 BCE. These ancient tumuli offer a glimpse into the Dilmun civilization's burial practices and Bahrain's rich history. Wander through thousands of mounds and reflect on the island's role as a key trade hub in antiquity.

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

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the uneven terrain of the burial mounds.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more pleasant experience.
  • Bring water and snacks as there are no facilities on-site.
  • Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the mounds.
  • Scan the QR code available on-site to learn more about the Dilmun Burial Mounds.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

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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 a testament to the island's rich past. Constructed during the Early Dilmun period (2200-1750 BCE), these mounds number around 11,774 and were initially built as cylindrical low towers. The royal mounds, grander in scale, were designed as two-story sepulchral towers. These burial sites reflect the prosperity of the Dilmun civilization, a major trading center that connected Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Bahrain's strategic location allowed it to flourish as a hub for maritime trade and valuable resources. The mounds vary in size and complexity, reflecting the social status of those interred within. Archaeologists have discovered pottery, jewelry, and tools within the mounds, offering insights into the daily lives and beliefs of the Dilmun people. Visiting the Dilmun Burial Mounds offers a unique opportunity to connect with Bahrain's ancient heritage. The sheer number of mounds creates a surreal landscape, inviting contemplation and exploration. While some may find the mounds underwhelming individually, their collective presence leaves a lasting impression.

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