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Bahrain or Bahrein, officially Kingdom of Bahrain, constitutional monarchy (1999
est. pop. 666,400), 266 sq mi (689 sq km), an archipelago in the Persian Gulf between
the Qatar Peninsula and Saudi Arabia. The two main islands are Bahrain (the largest)
and Al Muharraq, which are linked to each other and Saudi Arabia by causeway. The
capital and chief port is Al Manamah. Flat and sandy, with a few low hills, Bahrain
has a hot, humid climate.
Anciently known as Dilmun, the island was known to the Greeks as Tylos. Ruled by
Portugal (16th cent.) and Persia (intermittently from 1603, and long claimed by
Iran), Bahrain became a sheikhdom in 1783 and a British-protected state in 1861.
Independence was declared in 1971.
The majority of the population are Muslim Arab Bahrainis, but other Arabs and Iranians,
Indians, and other Asians make up over 35% of the inhabitants. About 75% of the
population are Shiite Muslims; most of the rest are Sunnis. Arabic is the official
language, but English, Farsi, and Urdu are also spoken.
Bahrain Tourist Attractions
There’s a range of day trips that can be booked through the Resort’s Guest Relations
Team including
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Bahrain National Museum |
Bahrain International Circuit
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The BD 11 million complex on Manama Bay includes three halls devoted to archaeology
and the ancient civilisation of Dilmun, while two other halls depict the culture
and lifestyle of Bahrain's recent pre-industrial past. Old Quranic manuscripts,
notes on astronomy and historical documents and letters are exhibited in a Documents
and Manuscripts Hall.
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Accomodates up to 70.000 spectators, its main grandstand holds 15.000 spectators,
plus a multi-purpose second pit building with lounges & a grandstand for 6,000
spectators. It has a media Centre with seating for 500 journalists.
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Fateh Mosque (Grand Mosque)
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The Tree of Life
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Bahrains Grande Mosque is set against a back drop of palm trees and the sea. Its
exquisite architecture, crowned by the worlds most largest fibreglass dome. Non
muslims are welcome to visit the mosque, it is important to dress appropriately.
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The Tree of Life is appox 400yrs old, and comes from the Acacia family, which
usually have a life expectancy of less then 100yrs. It is a mystery how the tree
has survived in the middle of the desert without any know water source.
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Bahrain Aquatique |
Arad Fort
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Pearl Diving has been Bahrain's heritage for millennia. There are up to 30 species
of coral and in excess of 200 species of fish can be found. In addition to reef
diving there are a wrecks around the island, including ships, planes, tugs &
barges.
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The Fort is square with a circular tower on each corner. Built in the 17th century
Arad Fort, It has undergone extensive restoration, and is now illuminated at night,
presenting a magnificent sight.
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