Dilmun Burial Mounds

What to Expect

The Mysteries of Dilmun

Bahrain’s burial mounds, especially those found in the island’s western regions, offer a glimpse into the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Known for its influential role in the Gulf and its trade links with Mesopotamia, Dilmun remains one of the most fascinating cultures of the ancient world.

Royal Graves

Dating back to the early Dilmun period between 2200 and 1750 BCE, these burial mounds span an incredible 450 years. Spread across 21 archaeological sites, including 17 royal cemeteries, they contain over 10,000 graves, with some clustered together in dense groups.

Burial Mounds Reflecting the Culture of Dilmun

The incredible number, scale, and design of these mounds reflects the level of advancement achieved by the early Dilmun civilisation.

While the size and construction of the graves varied depending on the social standing of the deceased, the number of burial sites indicates a time of great prosperity, allowing for the development of complex burial traditions for the entire population.

Similarities and Differences

The mounds indicate a shared belief in an afterlife, with bodies often placed in a foetal position to symbolise rebirth. However, differences in grave design and the items buried alongside the deceased reveal social distinctions. Royal graves were known for their grandeur and provide a rare insight into the lives of Dilmun’s last known kings, offering clues about their wealth and power.