Culture and history

Bahrain is one of the oldest cultural centers of the Persian Gulf: Dilmun's heritage is read along the mounds and the Kalaat al-Bahrain fortress.

Maritime trade and pearl mining on sailing dhows flourished here for centuries; crafts, nabati poetry and fijeri musical traditions were formed.

In the new era, the region experienced the influence of the Portuguese and Persians; since 1783, power belongs to the Al-Khalifa dynasty, and in 1971 the country gained independence.

Modern cultural life combines Islamic heritage, Arab customs of mailis and multiculturalism of the port hub: National Museum, festivals, preservation of old markets (bitches), cuisine with mahbus and the famous Bahraini halwa.

The historical depth and openness to the maritime world form the recognizable identity of the island kingdom.