This site, called Qal’at al-Bahrain – Ancient Harbour and Capital of Dilmun,  was once the capital of the Dilmun, a highly important ancient civilization in the region. Qal’at al-Bahrain was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or a place on Earth that is of outstanding universal value to humanity, in 2005. 

Qal’at al-Bahrain is a typical tell, an artificial mound formed by the accumulation of numerous layers of human habitation. Spanning an area of 300 × 600 meters, these archeological mounds bear witness to uninterrupted human presence from approximately 2300 BC to the 16th century AD. Although only about 25% of the site has been excavated, the uncovered structures include residential, public, commercial, religious, and military buildings.

Notably, it contains the most abundant and well-preserved remains of the Dilmun civilization, which had previously been known solely through written references from the Sumerian civilization. 

Visitors to the site will find a 12-meter archeological mound topped by an impressive Portuguese fort, which lends its name “qal’a” (fort) to the entire site. The UNESCO World Heritage Site also includes a sea tower, channel, and palm groves.

These layers bear witness to the enduring significance of the location, originally a trading port bustling with rich diversity and natural resources, across centuries. 

Visit the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities website to learn more about visiting Qal’at al-Bahrain – Ancient Harbour and Capital of Dilmun.