Bin Matar House: A Pearl Merchant's Legacy
Explore Bahrain's pearling history at Bin Matar House in Muharraq, a beautifully restored museum showcasing traditional architecture and local culture.
Bin Matar House, also known as Beit Matar, in Muharraq, Bahrain, is a beautifully restored traditional house that stands as a monument to Bahrain's pearling past. Built in 1905 by Salman bin Hussein Matar, a leading pearl merchant, it served as his family residence and a majlis, a gathering place for traders. Today, it operates as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of pearl diving and trading.
A brief summary to Bin Matar House
- 7J35+6C7, Rd No 1129, Muharraq, BH
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- Monday 8 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-2 pm
- Thursday 8 am-2 pm
- Saturday 8 am-2 pm
- Sunday 8 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (November to April) for a more comfortable experience exploring the outdoor spaces and surrounding Pearling Path.
- Check the Shaikh Ebrahim Center's website for upcoming cultural events, workshops, and art exhibitions held at Bin Matar House.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Pearling Path to explore other historical houses and learn more about Muharraq's heritage.
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Getting There
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Walking
Bin Matar House is centrally located in Muharraq, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. If you are in the Muharraq Souq area, head north on Road No 1129. The house is located on this road and is easily identifiable. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the heart of the souq. Look for signs pointing towards the Pearling Path; Bin Matar House is a key site along this path.
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Public Transport
From Manama, you can take a bus to Muharraq. Bahrain Transportation operates buses from Sh Isa Ave-2 in Manama to Al Muharraq every 20 minutes. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $1. From the Muharraq bus terminal, Bin Matar House is a short walk away. Check Moovit for specific routes and updated schedules.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Muharraq. From the Bahrain International Airport, a taxi ride to Bin Matar House will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between 3 BHD and 9 BHD. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber. Note that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Road No 1129 in Muharraq. Note that parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited, especially during peak hours. However, a multi-story car park is located near Bin Matar House and the Green Corner, offering paid parking for visitors. Parking fees at this facility are still being determined, but expect to pay a nominal hourly or daily rate. Street parking may also be available, but be sure to park in designated areas and observe any parking restrictions.
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