Background

Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort: A Historical Landmark

Explore Bahrain's history at Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, a beautifully restored 19th-century fortress with panoramic views of the Hunanaiya Valley.

4.3

Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort, is a well-preserved historical landmark in Riffa, Bahrain. Built in 1812, the fort served as a residence for the ruling Al Khalifa family and offers panoramic views of the Hunanaiya Valley. Today, it features a museum showcasing Bahrain's rich history and culture.

A brief summary to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover exploring the fort's courtyards and towers.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and capture the best light for photography.
  • Check the local schedule for any cultural events or exhibitions that may be held at the fort during your visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort using public transport, you can take Bus No. 66 from Jebel Dukhan towards Riffa. The bus departs from the main bus station in Jebel Dukhan. After about 30 minutes, get off at the Riffa stop. From there, you can either walk (approximately 1.5 kilometers) or take a local taxi to reach the fort. The taxi ride will cost around 1-2 BHD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Riffa, a taxi or ride-share to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort is readily available. Provide the driver with the address: Rd No 368, Riffa 903. The fare should be approximately 3-5 BHD depending on traffic.

Unlock the Best of Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort or Qal'at ar-Riffa, stands as a majestic testament to Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Riffa, this historical landmark dates back to 1812 when it was constructed during the reign of Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Al Khalifa. The fort's strategic location on a cliff offers commanding views of the desert valley that stretches between East Riffa and West Riffa, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Originally built on the foundations of an earlier 17th-century fortification, Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort served as both a defensive structure and the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa family. This dual purpose distinguishes it from other forts in Bahrain, highlighting its significance as a center of power and a symbol of the Al Khalifa dynasty's legacy. In 1848, Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932, was born within the fort's walls, further cementing its place in Bahraini history. The fort features a square ground plan with two circular and two rectangular towers at its corners, with the northeastern tower serving as the gate tower. Inside, three courtyards provide a glimpse into the fort's layout and the daily life of its inhabitants. At the end of the 20th century, the fort had fallen into disrepair, but it was later extensively restored and reopened to visitors, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Visitors can explore the fort during the daytime and visit the museum, which showcases architectural details crafted from gypsum and offers insight into the fort's rich history and cultural significance. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, which overlooks the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley.

Popular Experiences near Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Popular Hotels near Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Select Currency