KCR Spring 2025 Magazine - Flipbook - Page 66
Bahrain - A harmonious
blend of old and new
Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 small islands in the Persian Gulf with a
long history. Back in 3000 BC, it was at the heart of the Dilmun civilization and an in昀氀uential trade hub between Mesopotamia and the Indus
Valley. Its name means “two waters,” a re昀氀ection of the freshwater
springs gushing up from the seas surrounding it.
Known as the “Island of Pearls”, until the discovery of oil in 1932, it was
the 昀椀rst Gulf state to 昀椀nd and exploit these resources. Today its capital,
Manama, serves as a cultural and economic hub, blending modern skyscrapers with traditional souks. The annual Formula 1 Bahrain Grand
Prix attracts motorsport enthusiasts from across the globe.
My 昀氀ight lands on Muharraq Island, the most northernmost of the archipelago and home to Muharraq City, the capital of Bahrain until 1923.
It’s worth lingering here to explore its narrow streets with traditional
Bahraini houses, many of which have been restored as museums and art
galleries.
You can also take the Pearling Trail, the UNESCO-listed 3.5km path that
tells the story of Bahrain’s pearl-diving industry. It links various sites involved in pearling, most of them dating from the 19th century. If you’re
here in December, the Muharraq Nights Celebration features design,
fashion, food, and music across the historic neighbourhoods of the city.
Heading south, a causeway leads to the main island of Bahrain and the
capital Manama, the largest city in the country. At its heart and a symbol
of the country’s modernity is Bahrain Bay. This is a striking waterfront
development featuring high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, and gourmet
restaurants.
Stroll along the promenade, enjoy views of the bay, or dine at one of the
many restaurants. My unique way of appreciating its architecture is to
take a stand up paddle boat tour around its waterways. And of course I
end up in the water.
For a true taste of old Bahrain, head to the Manama Souq. Located
near Bab Al Bahrain, this warren of narrow streets and alleyways sells
everything from spices and traditional sweets to handcrafted jewellery
and textiles. Don’t miss the chance to buy Bahraini pearls or dine in one
of its many authentic cafes.
Every Muslim country has its main mosque and Manama has one of
the largest in the world. Built in 1988, at a cost of US$20 million, the
Al-Fateh Grand Mosque covers an area of 6,500 m2 and can hold up to
7,000 worshippers. Its two minarets dominate the city and the interior
is elaborately decorated with Italian marble, Austrian glass and Indian
teak.
Around 20 minutes from Manama is the UNESCO listed Qal’at al-Bahrain or Bahrain Fort. This archaeological site dates back to 2300 BC and
has been a focal point of numerous civilizations, from the Dilmun to the
Portuguese. Wander through the ruins and explore the adjacent museum to learn about the site’s layered history. Perched on a hill overlooking the Gulf, the fort is particularly enchanting at sunset.
14 km o昀昀 the coast of Bahrain is Jarada Island, and the boat journey
takes around 45 minutes. Basically it’s a sandbank which emerges and
disappears with the tides. At high tide, it vanishes completely beneath
the waves. As the waters subside, the island reveals itself as a strip of
powdery white sand surrounded by crystal-clear shallows.
The shallow waters around the island teem with marine life and snorkelers can expect to see colourful 昀椀sh darting through the coral reefs, even
a sea turtle gliding gracefully beneath the waves. It’s essential to bring
everything you might need, including water, food, sunscreen, although
most tour boats provide these.
Bahrain makes an ideal stopover if you’re 昀氀ying to and from the Middle
East but it’s also a destination in its own right. It’s more laid back than
its Arab neighbours, and you can enjoy the sumptuous sunsets with
a cocktail in your hand. Sure there’s good shopping, but there’s also
a wealth of culture and history. And don’t forget those pristine sandy
beaches
Visit Bahrain (www.bahrain.com) has travel information.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain (www.ritzcarlton.com) makes a comfortable
base in Manama.
Ra昀툀es Al Areen Palace Bahrain (www.ra昀툀es.com/bahrain) is an oasis
of luxury close to the Formula One Circuit.
By Rupert Parker
