Background

Dilmun Burial Mounds: Echoes of an Ancient Civilization

Uncover Bahrain's ancient past at the Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the island's rich history and unique burial traditions.

4.2

Explore the Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bahrain, dating back to 2200-1750 BCE. These ancient cemeteries, numbering over 11,000, offer a glimpse into the island's rich history as a vital trade hub during the Dilmun civilization.

A brief summary to Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

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.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the mounds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Bahrain National Museum to see artifacts discovered at the site.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Manama, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Careem or Uber) provides a direct route to the Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field. Input the destination as '4GW4+MWQ, Buri' 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 6-7 BHD.

  • 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 and then take a short taxi ride (approximately 5 minutes) or arrange for 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.

Unlock the Best of Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

The Dilmun Burial Mounds, scattered across 21 archaeological sites in western Bahrain, stand as silent witnesses to the island's ancient past. Constructed during the Early Dilmun period (2200-1750 BCE), these mounds served as elaborate cemeteries, reflecting the prosperity and social complexity of the Dilmun civilization. During this era, Bahrain flourished as a crucial trade hub connecting Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, fostering a unique burial tradition applicable to the entire population. The burial mounds, initially built as cylindrical low towers, showcase distinct characteristics in their number, density, and scale. The royal mounds, the grandest of them all, were constructed as two-story sepulchral towers, resembling ziggurats. Inside, burial chambers were equipped with alcoves to hold mortuary gifts, providing insights into the beliefs and customs of the Dilmun people. Today, the Dilmun Burial Mounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and curious travelers. Walking among the mounds, visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of these ancient cemeteries and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Bahrain. While individual mounds may seem unassuming, the collective impact of thousands of these structures creates a surreal, undulating landscape. The largest concentration of mounds can be found in A'ali village, where visitors can explore well-preserved examples, some with exposed interiors. The Dilmun Burial Mounds offer a unique and memorable journey into Bahrain's ancient history, inviting contemplation on the lives and legacies of those who once inhabited this island.

Popular Experiences near Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

Popular Hotels near Dilmun Burial Mounds - A'ali West Burial Mound Field

Select Currency