The Pearling Path in Muharraq, Bahrain, is a 2.2-mile walking trail that takes visitors on a journey through the country’s rich pearling history. It starts at Bu Mahir seashore, where pearl divers once began their long sea journeys. The path is marked by glass spheres on terrazzo posts, guiding visitors through narrow alleys filled with the aroma of cardamom and fresh flatbread.
One of the key stops is Al Ghus House, a former divers’ residence turned museum. Here, visitors learn about the challenging lives of pearl fishers who faced harsh conditions at sea. Their songs, known as fan al-bahri, play in the courtyard, echoing tales of homesickness and hope.
The trail also passes by old merchants’ mansions, now transformed into exhibition spaces by famous designers. At Siyadi House, home to Muharraq’s oldest mosque, the Siyadi Pearl Museum showcases stunning jewels, including pieces by Jacques Cartier, who visited Bahrain in 1912 searching for gems.
The Pearling Path Visitor Center, designed by Valerio Olgiati, also serves as a community hub. Close by, the Suq Al Qaysariyyah market blends traditional pearl shops with modern cafés and bookshops. The trail not only preserves Bahrain’s pearling heritage but also revitalizes Muharraq’s cultural scene, making it a must-visit for history lovers.
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