Located on the island of the same name just a 20-minute drive across a causeway from Manama, Bahrain’s oldest and second most populous city (pop. 97,000) feels quieter and more intimate than Manama. It has roots in Dilmun and rose to its greatest prominence after the Al Khalifas took control in 1783, remaining the national capital until 1932. Though it has its own considerable modern side, very walkable central Muharraq also retains much of its traditional character, with historic houses such as Dar Alfann, Kurar House, and Maison Jamsheer; mosques like mid-19th-century Siyadi (pictured here); the 15th-century Arad Fort; and the Souq Al Quaiseriya as wel as other markets that reflect its maritime heritage. Another landmark not to miss when it reopens after renovations is the Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House, a 19th-century royal residence and one of Bahrain’s finest examples of traditional Gulf architecture. As if all that weren´t enough, the city is also famously home to the Pearling Path, one of two of the country´s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: a trail of just over two miles connecting various squares, narrow lanes, and 17 historic buildings including merchant houses and traditional wind-tower homes, along with the 1840 seafront Bu Mahir Fort on the island´s southern tip.
Read more in my post An Introduction to Bahrain, Plus 5 Spots Not to Miss.
Comments