ShoaibPhotography: May 2010

There are two Historical forts in Bahrain.They are Bahrain Fort & Arad Fort.

These forts have been renovated timely preserving heritage, often using traditional materials with modern techniques.

Bahrain Fort

Discovered in 1953, this 16th century Portuguese fort is built on the remains of several previous settlements, reflecting the Dilmun era around 2800BC. having sea view Entry is free and the fort is open from 08:00 to 13:00 every day including Friday. Follow the signs to Karbabad Village. The small village at the entrance to the fort is remarkable.Each and every house is hand painted by the locals to boost up tourist attraction.

Arad Fort

Built at the end of the 15th century, when Bahrain was occupied by the Portuguese, the fort was designed to defend the invaders against the local population and the Ottomans in Saudi Arabia. The fort is interesting because of the use of traditional local materials in its restoration, such as coral stone (in which small sea shells are embedded), lime, gypsum and date palm trunks. Its location on the edge of the bay opposite Bahrain International Airport is quite amazing.During the winter months, handicraft stalls are set up in the courtyard between the fort and the sea, and sometimes cultural events are staged in the same area. At the water’s edge is a small coffee shop with benches outside for shisha smokers. Timings: Sun - Tue 08:00 - 14:00, Wed & Thu 09:00 - 18:00, Fri 15:00 - 18:00.