Qal'at al-Bahrain
Country: Bahrain
Region: Middle East
Period: 3rd millenniumBCE
Location: 26.233611°N, 50.520556°E
Description
Qal'at al-Bahrain, also known as the Bahrain Fort, is an archaeological site located on the northern coast of Bahrain, near Manama. Once a thriving harbor city and the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilization, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is situated atop a large artificial mound created by thousands of years of continuous human occupation. Surrounded by palm groves and overlooking the sea, Qal’at al-Bahrain is one of Bahrain’s most important heritage destinations.
Modern Remains
Visitors to Qal’at al-Bahrain can explore the impressive fort structure, which dates mostly from the Portuguese occupation in the 16th century but overlays earlier Dilmun, Hellenistic, and Islamic levels. The on-site museum presents a rich array of artifacts including pottery, tools, seals, and inscriptions from various periods. Informative exhibits narrate the site's 4,000-year history. Walking paths and viewing platforms provide scenic views of the archaeological mound and the Arabian Gulf. The surrounding Date Palm Groves and UNESCO interpretation center enhance the experience, making it a captivating destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.