Explore the Historic Home of a Former Ruler of Bahrain (1869-1932) and Experience Traditional Bahraini Architecture
Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa’s house, the residence of Bahrain’s ruler from 1869 to 1932, is a historic architectural landmark in Bahrain. Built around 1800, it is one of the oldest preserved houses in Bahrain, retaining its original architectural charm. The house served as both the ruler’s residence and his seat of governance, adding to its historical significance. Located in the heart of Muharraq, which served as Bahrain’s capital during various historical periods, the house offers a glimpse into the traditional construction style of old Bahraini homes. Its design beautifully combines ancient Bahraini and Islamic architectural elements, making it a must-visit for tourists.
Photos & Videos
What to Expect
A Beautiful Heritage House
From the outside, the house resembles a fortress and is divided into four main sections: the ruler’s wing, the family wing, the servants’ wing, and the guest wing. Each wing features a large central courtyard surrounded by rooms serving various purposes. The walls are adorned with Islamic-style engravings, while the house’s wooden doors and tall, rectangular heritage windows add to its charm. A standout feature is the wind tower, or “Badgir”, used to cool the air in the house, an effective method for maintaining a comfortable temperature during the hot summer months. With a total of 26 rooms, the house exemplifies the style of large, elegant old Bahraini homes, constructed with local materials like coral stones, mud, and palm trunks, as well as imported materials such as “Danjal” from Basra, India, and North Africa.
Explore the Historic Home of a Former Ruler of Bahrain (1869-1932) and Experience Traditional Bahraini Architecture
Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa’s house, the residence of Bahrain’s ruler from 1869 to 1932, is a historic architectural landmark in Bahrain. Built around 1800, it is one of the oldest preserved houses in Bahrain, retaining its original architectural charm. The house served as both the ruler’s residence and his seat of governance, adding to its historical significance. Located in the heart of Muharraq, which served as Bahrain’s capital during various historical periods, the house offers a glimpse into the traditional construction style of old Bahraini homes. Its design beautifully combines ancient Bahraini and Islamic architectural elements, making it a must-visit for tourists.
Photos & Videos
What to Expect
A Beautiful Heritage House
From the outside, the house resembles a fortress and is divided into four main sections: the ruler’s wing, the family wing, the servants’ wing, and the guest wing. Each wing features a large central courtyard surrounded by rooms serving various purposes. The walls are adorned with Islamic-style engravings, while the house’s wooden doors and tall, rectangular heritage windows add to its charm. A standout feature is the wind tower, or “Badgir”, used to cool the air in the house, an effective method for maintaining a comfortable temperature during the hot summer months. With a total of 26 rooms, the house exemplifies the style of large, elegant old Bahraini homes, constructed with local materials like coral stones, mud, and palm trunks, as well as imported materials such as “Danjal” from Basra, India, and North Africa.
Muharraq
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