is a Middle Eastern nation that is forever connected to the vast ocean that surrounds it. Deriving its name from an Arabic term meaning “two seas”, this small island with a 4000 year old history is also an archeological Mecca where the land’s relationship with the sea is visible in its buildings. As a haven for some of the world’s finest pearls, Bahrain’s financial and cultural fortunes are indelibly connected with these two elements. One example of this is of course the country’s iconic Museum of Pearl Diving.
Originally used as the site of Bahrain’s Supreme Court in 1356, the Museum of Pearl Diving was officially converted to the Traditional Heritage Center of the country in 1984. Visitors can tour the quarters of the building that once housed the offices of the appellate court, civil court and criminal court when the building was first inaugurated by then governor H.H. Sh. Hamad Bin Essa AI-Khalifa. Currently under the patronage of the Directorate of Archaeology and Heritage, it is considered by many to be one of the most iconic buildings in the island nation.
Must-see points of interest within the museum include its massive wooden doors which still bear the emblematic scales of justice. The display rooms inside offer guests a well documented look into the country’s illustrious past with a special focus on its pearl diving and sea-faring legacy. The exhibits include ancient weaponry and even musical instruments that belonged to the period while other highlights include traditional costumes, medicines and games that were popular in the era. The varied uses of the date palm are also explored as its symbolic and practical connection with the people of Bahrain is extensively dealt with.
The top floor of the museum is devoted to a photographic exhibit that traces the country’s diplomatic relations with the world. One can witness momentous occasions in which local leaders met with foreign dignitaries in this section of the museum.
Visitors looking for Bahrain accommodation from which to explore its innumerable attractions should make a reservation at its finest luxury hotel, the Somerset Al Fateh. Pleasantly situated in the suburb of Juffair, with state-of- the-art business and leisure facilities, this idyllic hotel offers first class accommodation and is ideal for business travel Bahrain.