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Arad Fort: A Bastion of Bahrain's History

Explore Arad Fort: A historic fortress in Bahrain showcasing Islamic military architecture and panoramic coastal views.

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Arad Fort, a 15th-century Islamic fortress in Muharraq, Bahrain, stands as a well-preserved testament to the island's strategic importance. Over the centuries, it has served as a defensive stronghold against various invaders, including the Portuguese and the Omanis. Its traditional Islamic architecture, characterized by robust walls and cylindrical corner towers, offers visitors a glimpse into Bahrain's rich military past.

A brief summary to Arad Fort

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) to avoid the intense summer heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves a fair amount of walking and climbing.
  • Visit the fort near sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and immerse yourself in the heritage and ancient relics.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manama, take a local bus towards Muharraq. The bus journey takes approximately 11 minutes, with buses departing every 20 minutes from Palace Avenue. Alight at Al Muharraq, from where Arad Fort is a short taxi ride away. The bus fare is approximately 0.4 BHD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Manama and can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps. A taxi ride from Manama to Arad Fort typically takes around 8 minutes and costs between 4.15-5.78 BHD.

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Discover more about Arad Fort

Arad Fort, located on Muharraq Island, is a captivating historical site that showcases Bahrain's rich heritage. Constructed in the late 15th century in the typical Islamic style, the fort's strategic location near the Arabian Gulf made it a crucial defensive structure throughout history. It was initially built during the rule of Arabian Gulf tribes and later used by the Portuguese in the 16th century and the Omanis in the 19th century. The fort's architecture is a blend of traditional Islamic and Portuguese styles, featuring a square layout with cylindrical towers at each corner. These towers provided vantage points for surveillance and defense. The walls are constructed from coral stone and limestone, materials commonly used in the region for their durability. A trench surrounds the fort, which was historically filled with water from wells to impede potential invaders. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved structure, including the towers, walls, and interior spaces. Informative displays and guided tours provide insights into the fort's history and significance. The site also offers picturesque views of the surrounding coastline, especially during sunset. The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities has implemented amenities such as a visitor center, restrooms, and a gift shop to enhance the visitor experience. Arad Fort is not only a historical landmark but also a venue for cultural events and activities, such as traditional music performances and art exhibitions. These events aim to engage the local community and visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for Bahrain's cultural heritage.

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