Overview:

Qal'at Arad, Muharraq is an archaeological site located on the north shore of Bahrain and is considered to be one of the oldest settlements in the region. The site contains vestiges of a Bronze Age settlement, fortifications, a temple complex, and the remains of a tower built by the Persian Empire. Qal'at Arad is also known for its architectural and archaeological significance, as it was home to some of the earliest Persian settlements in the region. The site is currently under the protection of the Bahraini government, and visitors can tour the ruins and learn about its history. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Bahrain
Prominent Features:

1. The Qal'at Arad is an 11th century fort and archaeological site located in Muharraq, Bahrain. 2. The fort underwent extensive restoration in the 18th century and has been restored in modern times. 3. The fort was built in the shape of a four-point star with four corner towers and a central bastion. 4. It is the most important site in Muharraq, and is home to a traditional bazaar, a small museum, a mosque, and the House of Poetry. 5. The fort has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is a well-preserved example of a fortified Islamic trading town from the period. 6. Qal'at Arad also serves as the venue for many cultural and religious events throughout the year. It is a popular tourist destination and features a stunning view of the Muharraq skyline. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bahrain.

History:

Qal’at Arad, or “Arad Castle”, is a pre-Islamic fort located in Muharraq, Bahrain. It traces its origin back to the Dilmun era, around 2000bc during the Bronze Age. The fort was initially constructed by the Dilmunites and was then later renovated by the Portuguese during their occupation of Bahrain. The fort played an important role in defending the eastern coast of Bahrain from invaders. During the Dilmun era, it served as a port and a trading post, providing a link between Bahrain and the other cities of the Gulf. It later became a base for the Portuguese as they expanded their regional control. After this, it served as an administrative center for the rulers of Bahrain throughout the centuries. Qal’at Arad underwent significant renovation and repairs during the 19th century and in 1929, to prepare it for defense against potential Ottoman invasion. After World War II, it became a tourist site and a cultural center. It currently is a popular destination for visitors to Bahrain and is home to a museum as well as a shop essential to the area’s old-timey atmosphere. Qal’at Arad remains a key feature of Muharraq's history and culture and is a reminder of the island's long-standing connections to the world beyond its borders. Its restoration to its original form has allowed it to better serve as an historical reminder of the region’s past. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bahrain with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Qal'at Arad Fort is located on the northeastern tip of Muharraq Island in Bahrain and is one of the largest fortifications in the Gulf region. 2. The fort is believed to have been constructed in the 16th century to protect the island from invaders. 3. It is made of burnt brick and coral, and it has sentry towers, bastions, and gun emplacements. 4.The fort is surrounded by a deep and wide moat with four drawbridges. 5. Inside the fort is the Al-Qaisariya Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Bahrain, constructed in 1795. 6. Qal'at Arad served as a site of great historic importance during recent years. 7. In 2011, a major Bahraini uprising took place in the fort and the walls were covered with graffiti as a sign of unity and to mark the 10th anniversary of the popular revolt. One of the historical monuments of Bahrain, it tells the story of a bygone era