Finally I was able to visit the Bahrain National Museum. I've been wanting to explore this museum eversince I came to Bahrain 4 years ago.It was a trip partly made possible through our church that organized the Tour of Bahrain last December 0f 2008.
The museum is part of a proposed civic complex, which will include the national library, exhibition halls, and an aquarium. At present, only the museum and the arcade, which will form the centre of th
e complex, have been built. In the museum itself, a central spine turned at a 45 degree angle gives access to four cubic gallery blocks. These massive, square, stone boxes form the exhibition spaces. The façades are totally blank, and the galleries are lit artificially to avoid possible deterioration of exhibits. The foyer, however, is roofed with concrete barrel vaults at different levels, allowing the strong sunlight to wash the walls in streaks and splashes. The introvertive nature of the plan form combines the requirements for exhibiting delicate artifacts with the need to respect local climatic conditions, and a certain reference to indigenous architectural images.
One of the highlights of the exhibit can be found in the ancient history section wherein an actual burial mound was transported from its site in the dessert and reassembled in the museum.
Another feature is a tableau which depicts a scene from the Epic of Gilgamesh (in which reference to Bahrain is made as the paradise of Dilmun).
The museum possess a rich collection of Bahrain's ancient archeological artifacts since 1988, and covers 6000 years of Bahrain's history.
What I enjoyed the most was the life size exhibit showcasing the culture and lifestyle of Bahrain. It showcases the tradition of Bahrain that we expat seldom see. The different display has an audio background of the actual scene being depicted on the display, so it really was an experience for me. It makes you feel you are with them as it happens. See pictures below and have a peek on how's life is among with the Bahrainis.
What I enjoyed the most was the life size exhibit showcasing the culture and lifestyle of Bahrain. It showcases the tradition of Bahrain that we expat seldom see. The different display has an audio background of the actual scene being depicted on the display, so it really was an experience for me. It makes you feel you are with them as it happens. See pictures below and have a peek on how's life is among with the Bahrainis.
1. THE FIRST DAY OF BIRTH
2.THE POPULAR TRADITION OF NANOON
The lady with the basket is throwing candies to the delight of the children in the village.3. THE SCHOOL AND THE TEACHER
Quranic lessons at such a young age.
4. GOOD LUCK PARTY FOR THE BRIDE
This one is creepy. The bride all covered-up sitting on a rug looks like a ghost. She was being carried on by four ladies on each end of the rug. 5. THE BRIDE
Bejeweled in golden accessories with henna tattoo on her hands and feet.
6. BARAHA
Small meeting place for the old folks and fishermen of the village.
7. THE CHILDREN GO TO THE SEA
8. MAKING KURAR (GARMENTS)
9. BADLEH LACE EMBROIDERY
10. BAHRAIN'S TRADITIONAL CLOTHES
(L-R) Thaub Almufahay, Shelhal,Thaub Alnashel,Zeboon 
Generally, it is worth the trip to visit the Bahrain National Museum. It has a lot of things to offer that might be of interest to you as well. The whole structure has a centralized cooling system, (which is a must in this country), making your tour more pleasurable and convenient. It offers a wide parking space for everyone and the entrance fee is about a little more than one US dollar. It has a souvenir shop, though it has nothing much to offer, might as well take a peek inside. One travel tip for everyone though, bring your own snacks should you feel the need to have one after exploring the entire museum. Somewhat disapointing is they don't have a coffee shop or a snack bar. Nevertheless, if you have the time, come and see what Bahrain has to offer at the Bahrain National Museum.
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