Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Beit al-Quran
MUSEUM
( 17 290 101; Sheikh Hamad Causeway, access off Exhibition Ave; 9am-noon & 4-6pm Sat-Wed, 9am-noon
Thu; )
With its wrapping of carved Kufic script, the distinctive Beit al-Quran is a fine
example of modern Bahraini architecture. It houses a large and striking collection of Qur-
ans, manuscripts and woodcarvings and functions as a good introduction to Islam in gen-
eral, and Islamic calligraphy in particular. Look out for the miniature Qurans, the smallest
of which (from 18th-century Persia) measures only 4.7cm by 3.2cm. The exhibits are well
labelled in English and can be superficially perused within an hour. The bookshop in the
foyer sells crafts. Visitors should dress conservatively. The building is next to the Bahrain
Red Crescent Society, but the main entrance and car park are at the back. Tours are often
organised - call ahead to check.
Bab al-Bahrain
MONUMENT
(Government Ave)
Built by the British in 1945, Bab al-Bahrain, the 'Gateway to Bahrain', was
originally designed by Sir Charles Belgrave. It was redesigned in 1986 to give it more of
an 'Islamic' flavour. The small square in front of the
bab
(gate) was once the terminus of
the customs pier - an indication of the extent of land reclamation of the past two decades.
The building now houses the Tourist Department (under renovation at the time of writ-
ing).
Despite having been moved back from the water's edge, the gateway is still aptly
named, as goods of various description, people of all nationalities, street vendors, shop-
pers and workers pass under its arches in a constant pageant of activity in this, the heart of
Manama.
Friday Mosque
MOSQUE
(Government Ave)
Built in 1938, this mosque is easily identifiable by its elaborately crafted
minaret, the mosque's most interesting architectural feature. The mosque is reflected in
the glass windows of the neighbouring Batelco Commercial Centre, providing a suggest-
ive reflection of old and new Manama. The mosque is not open to tourists.
La Fontaine Centre
of Contemporary Art
GALLERY
