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Khalaf House: A Glimpse into Bahrain's Pearling Past

Explore Khalaf House in Manama, a beautifully restored pearl merchant's home showcasing Bahrain's rich cultural heritage and pearling history.

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Khalaf House, also known as Bait Khalaf, is a beautifully restored traditional Bahraini house in Manama that once belonged to a prominent pearl merchant, Mohammad Salman Khalaf. Built in 1921, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life of a wealthy merchant and the architecture of the early 20th century, showcasing Bahrain's rich cultural heritage and its strong ties to the pearling industry.

A brief summary to Khalaf House

  • 6HHH+MPX, Rd No 109, Manama, Manama Center, BH
  • +97338243823

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they can vary.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Manama Souq for a taste of local culture and shopping.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring multiple rooms and outdoor areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Bab Al Bahrain, a central landmark, Khalaf House is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head southeast on Government Avenue, then turn right onto Road No 109. Continue straight; Khalaf House will be on your left. This route allows you to experience the local atmosphere and view other historical buildings along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve the area near Khalaf House. From the Manama bus terminal, take a bus that stops near Manama Gate or Ibn Sina Health Center. From either of these stops, it's a short 5-minute walk to Khalaf House. Bus routes A1, A2, 12, 19, 41 and 45 all stop near Khalaf House. A single bus fare costs 0.30 BHD, or 0.25 BHD if using a Go Card.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Manama. A taxi ride from Bab Al Bahrain to Khalaf House typically costs between 2 BHD to 3 BHD. Ensure the driver uses the meter. The base fare for taxis in Manama is 2.0 BHD, with each kilometer priced at 1.0 BHD.

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Discover more about Khalaf House

Located in the heart of Manama, Khalaf House stands as a remarkable testament to Bahrain's rich cultural heritage, blending traditional architecture with contemporary aesthetics. Constructed in 1921, this beautifully preserved house once belonged to Mohammad Salman Khalaf, a prominent pearl merchant who played a significant role in Bahrain's thriving pearling industry. Today, Khalaf House serves not only as a visual delight but also as a cultural landmark, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the life of a wealthy merchant and the architectural style of the early 20th century. The two-story structure features a spacious open courtyard, surrounded by rooms that each tell a different chapter of Bahrain's history. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by an atmosphere filled with echoes of the past, where every archway and courtyard whispers tales of generations gone by. One room showcases family artifacts and photos, providing personal insights into the Khalaf family's life. Another displays tools and equipment from Khalaf's pearl trading business, illustrating the intricacies of this once-thriving industry. A third room honors notable figures from Manama's past with historic portraits, further enriching the cultural narrative. Khalaf House exemplifies Manama's strong ties to the history of pearls and trade. The building was donated by the Khalaf family to be a cultural landmark, honoring the significant role of pearling merchants in the history of Bahrain. It is now affiliated with the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research. The house preserves memories of Manama's neighborhoods, residents, and the pearl trade, forming an open museum that offers a glimpse into Bahrain's history through its architecture, people, and heritage.

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