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Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort: A Historical Landmark

Explore Bahrain's history at Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort in Riffa, a window into the lives of the Al Khalifa rulers.

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Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort, is a well-preserved historical landmark in Riffa, Bahrain, built in 1812. It offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the Al Khalifa ruling family and Bahrain's rich history.

A brief summary to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of ground to cover within the fort.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Hunanaiya Valley.
  • Visit during the cooler months for a more pleasant experience exploring the fort.
  • Check for any special events or guided tours for a more informative visit.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Riffa, a taxi or ride-share to Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort is readily available. Provide the driver with the address: Rd No 368, Riffa 903. The fare should be approximately 3-5 BHD depending on traffic.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort via public transport, locate the nearest bus stop that services Riffa. You can take Bus 11 or 23, which will take you towards Riffa. A one-way ticket costs approximately 0.30 BHD.

  • Driving

    If driving from Manama, head southwest towards Riffa. Follow signs for Road 368 and continue until you see signs for Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort. Ample parking is available near the fort.

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Discover more about Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort

Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort, also known as Riffa Fort or Qal'at ar-Riffa, is a majestic testament to Bahrain's rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Riffa, the fort dates back to 1812 when it was constructed during the reign of Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Al Khalifa. The fort's strategic location on a cliff offers commanding views of the desert valley that stretches between East Riffa and West Riffa, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Originally built on the foundations of an earlier 17th-century fortification, Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Fort served as both a defensive structure and the residence of the ruling Al Khalifa family. This dual purpose distinguishes it from other forts in Bahrain, highlighting its significance as a center of power and a symbol of the Al Khalifa dynasty's legacy. In 1848, Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932, was born within the fort's walls, further cementing its place in Bahraini history. The fort features a square ground plan with two circular and two rectangular towers at its corners, with the northeastern tower serving as the gate tower. Inside, three courtyards provide a glimpse into the fort's layout and the daily life of its inhabitants. A modern section within the fort displays artifacts related to the royal family, including swords and a valuable collection of jewelry, daggers, hunting tools, and falconry equipment. The fort also houses the Saffron Café, which overlooks the picturesque Al-Haniniya Valley.

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