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Dilmun Burial Mounds: Echoes of an Ancient Civilization

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Explore ancient burial grounds from the Dilmun civilization, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting Bahrain's Bronze Age history.

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 island's Bronze Age Dilmun civilization and its unique burial practices, reflecting Bahrain's historical role as a vital trade hub.

A brief summary to Dilmun Burial Mounds

  • 140 Rd No 7151, Saar 757 Rd No 7151, Saar, 757, BH
  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

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.
  • Scan the QR code on-site to learn more about the history and significance of the mounds.
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Getting There

  • 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, then take a short taxi ride (approximately 5 minutes) or arrange 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 0.3-0.5 BHD per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Manama, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Careem or Uber) provides a direct route to the Dilmun Burial Mounds. Input the destination as 'Dilmun Burial Mounds' 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 4-7 BHD.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, head south on Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway. Continue until you reach the A'ali area. Look for signs directing you towards Buri. The A'ali West Burial Mound Field is located in Buri. Parking is usually available near the site, though it can be limited during peak hours.

Discover more about Dilmun Burial Mounds

The Dilmun Burial Mounds, scattered across 21 archaeological sites in western Bahrain, stand as a testament to the island's rich history and the ancient Dilmun civilization that flourished here during the Bronze Age. Constructed between 2200 and 1750 BCE, these mounds number around 11,774, originally built as cylindrical low towers. The sites include burial mound fields and royal mounds, showcasing the civilization's complex social structure and elaborate burial traditions.During the Early Dilmun period, Bahrain gained prominence as a trade hub, connecting Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. This prosperity led to significant population growth and a more diversified society, reflected in the extensive necropoleis. The mounds vary in size and style, with the grandest being the royal mounds, characterized by their two-story sepulchral towers. These royal mounds, reaching up to 12 meters in height, feature alcove-equipped burial chambers. Ordinary tombs are simpler, yet the sheer number of mounds creates a surreal, undulating landscape.Visiting the Dilmun Burial Mounds offers a unique journey into the past, allowing one to reflect on the beliefs and customs of this ancient civilization. Although individual mounds may seem unassuming, the collective impact of thousands of these structures is impressive. The site is open to the public and offers a peaceful setting for exploration and contemplation.
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