The Dilmun Civilization

1 hour

Bahrain National Museum: One of the first museums in the Gulf, the Bahrain National Museum opened in 1988. The site itself, on the edge of the sea, is a tremendous attraction, adding to its contemporary ambience which is influenced by the white travertine façade and dramatic courtyard decorated with contemporary sculptures. Its the place to learn Bahrain's history, culture & traditions.

45 min

Bahrain Fort: Thought to be once the centre of power for the ancient Dilmun civilisation, Qal'at Al Bahrain (Bahrain Fort) has UNESCO World Heritage status. The Bahrain Fort occupies a strategic military position where the navigation movement could be watched. Excavations have revealed ancient soldier's barracks, horse stables, an ammunition depot, a secret passageway, ceramic utensils and Islamic and Chinese currency coins.

20 min

Barbar Temple : The Barbar Temples are among the most remarkable architectural survivals of the ancient world without parallel in the region. This archaeological site, located in the North-western village of Barbar in Bahrain, is considered to be part of the Ancient Dilmun culture. The archaeologists found three temples built on top of each other belonging to different eras.

10 min

Burial Mounds: These archaeological mounds are of great historical importance going back to the Dilmun civilization in the third millennium BC. Other archaeological mounds, which go back to the Hellenistic period of Alexander the Great (2500 BC) are also found in various areas in Bahrain. The most imposing mounds are those believed to be the Dilmunite Royal Tombs. These tombs are seen in A'ali close to modern dwellings.