With a myriad of forts, temples and mosques dotted in all directions, Bahrain is an archaeological connoisseur’s dream. Its world-famous prehistoric cemeteries are located on six sites in the northern end of Bahrain Island. Over 150,000 of these burial mounds – commemorating the Dilmun and Tylos civilizations - were constructed over a period of 500 years.

A favorite with visitors, the Barbar Temple, where excavations began in the 1950s and 1960s, encompass three stone-built temples dating from the second and third millennia BC. Other attractions like the Bahrain Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1522 when they occupied the island, has its first dwellings - since overlaid by numerous fortified settlements – traced back to 2800 BC. Arrange a photocall at the Pearl Roundabout, Bahrain's renowned landmark, or unravel the mysteries of the intriguing 'Tree of Life'. Bahrain's mix of the ancient and new is anything if not inspired.

The architecture of Bahraini buildings borrows from the different aspects of Middle Eastern design and religion, namely arches, domes, minarets and towers engraved with Arabic calligraphy.The Al-Fateh mosque is one such example of the integration of divine and aesthetic sensibilities. Located in Juffair, this is the largest mosque in Bahrain and can hold up to 7000 worshippers. Moderate dress is a necessity for all, and abayas (the traditional Middle Eastern black cloak) will be provided for female visitors. Wander further afield through the atmospheric streets of Bharain’s capital Manama, and you cannot help but encounter the ornate geometrical carvings and breath-taking vistas of this ancient desert citadel.

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