bahrainthismonth.com | JULY 2025 CULTURE 42 Bahrain’s Cultural Heartbeat University student Aysha Zehra explores the Bahrain National Museum, discovering a dynamic space where ancient heritage, traditional crafts and modern creativity intersect to tell the island’s evolving story. Nestled beside Manama’s shimmering shoreline, the Bahrain National Museum stands as a proud custodian of the Kingdom’s rich heritage. What began as a brief visit during my university break quickly turned into a profound exploration of Bahrain’s soul. I expected dusty artefacts and silent halls, but instead found a vibrant cultural hub where past and present are in constant conversation. The museum’s architecture, a harmonious blend of modern lines and traditional influence, mirrors its mission: to bridge eras. Completed in 1988 at a cost of BD8.5m, the expansive 27,800-squaremetre structure welcomes visitors into a world layered with history. Inside, each hall tells a distinct story. The Ancient Artefacts Hall, with relics from the Dilmun civilisation, showcases Bahrain’s early role as a trade centre. Nearby, the Natural History Hall explores the island’s unique geology, while the Customs & Traditions Hall vividly recreates pre-oil life with immersive dioramas and vintage furnishings. Interactive exhibits and audio guides provide context that transforms observation into understanding. Particularly moving was the Traditional Lifeways Gallery. Here, dioramas and original artefacts illustrate the pearl diving industry, once the backbone of Bahrain’s economy. A museum guide shared stories of his grandfather’s diving days, lending the space a deeply personal resonance. Bahraini women’s embroidery, with patterns passed down through generations, is also beautifully showcased alongside modern designs inspired by traditional techniques. Contemporary culture finds its voice too. The rotating gallery features works by local artists who reinterpret heritage through modern mediums. Maryam Al-Noaimi’s mixed-media piece, combining pearl shells with digital projection, stood out as a striking example. During my visit, university students were sketching ancient pottery designs for modern applications – proof of the museum’s role as a creative incubator. Beyond its exhibits, the museum invites participation. I joined a pottery workshop inspired by ancient Dilmun styles, and while my creation was modest, the experience offered a tactile connection to Bahrain’s cultural practices. Free guided tours on Saturdays and student discounts on Tuesdays make the museum especially accessible. The adjoining café, overlooking the sea, is a serene spot to reflect – complete with Bahraini coffee and pastries. A whimsical touch, like the paw print atop my friend’s hot chocolate, reminded me how heritage and hospitality go hand in hand. The Bahrain National Museum doesn’t simply preserve the past; it engages visitors in a living, evolving story. It is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and layered understanding of Bahrain beyond the headlines.
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