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Bahrain National Museum: A Journey Through Time

Discover 6,000 years of Bahraini history and culture at the Bahrain National Museum, from ancient civilizations to modern heritage.

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The Bahrain National Museum in Manama is the country's largest and oldest public museum, showcasing 6,000 years of Bahrain's rich history and culture. Exhibits range from ancient Dilmun artifacts to traditional Bahraini life, housed in a striking modern building overlooking Muharraq Island.

A brief summary to Bahrain National Museum

  • 6HRX+86G, Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Alcorniche, BH
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of the museum's exhibits.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection and exhibits.
  • Combine your museum visit with a boat trip to Qal'at Bu Mahir for a unique perspective on Bahrain's pearling history.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Bahrain National Theatre or the Al Fateh Corniche, the museum is a short walk away. Head east along Shaikh Hamad Causeway, keeping the water to your right. The museum will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve the Bahrain National Museum. From the Manama bus station, catch bus routes 12, 17, 19 or A1. A single journey costs 300 fils (approximately $0.80), while a daily pass costs 700 fils (around $1.85).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. Simply request a ride to the Bahrain National Museum. The base fare for taxis in Bahrain starts at BHD 1 (approximately $2.65) for the first kilometer, with an additional charge of 200 fils (around $0.53) per kilometer thereafter.

  • Driving

    If driving to the Bahrain National Museum, navigate towards Shaikh Hamad Causeway in Manama. The museum offers free on-site parking for visitors. However, parking spaces can be limited during peak hours. There are no tolls or special access fees required to reach the museum by car.

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Discover more about Bahrain National Museum

The Bahrain National Museum, established in 1988, stands as a cultural beacon in Manama, offering an immersive journey through Bahrain's captivating history. Designed by Danish architects Krohn & Hartvig Rasmussen, the museum's striking white travertine marble facade is a landmark on an artificial peninsula overlooking Muharraq Island. The museum complex is divided into several halls, each dedicated to a different era or aspect of Bahraini heritage. The Hall of Dilmun showcases artifacts from the ancient Dilmun civilization (5000-400 BC), highlighting its significance as a trading hub. Discoveries from Barbar Temple and Saar Temple, Dilmunite pottery, and the Durand Stone are among the notable exhibits. The Hall of Graves displays remains from ancient burial mounds, offering insights into burial rituals of the Dilmun era. The Hall of Tylos and Islam features pottery, glassware, and jewelry from the Tylos period, reflecting the island's diverse cultural connections. This hall also displays discoveries from the Khamis Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Gulf. The Hall of Documents and Manuscripts exhibits rare Qur'an copies and historical documents from the Al Khalifa family. Explore Bahraini culture and lifestyle in the Hall of Customs and Traditions, with models of traditional markets and homes. The Natural History Hall displays Bahrain's flora and fauna. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, ensuring a dynamic experience for every visitor. A gift shop and cafe with lake views are available for relaxation.

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