A City Where Cultures and Faiths Meet

TDT | Manama

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Manama the capital of Bahrain, is a vibrant city that welcomes visitors and tourists from all over the world. What makes it truly special is its rich religious and cultural diversity. In Manama, mosques, temples, and churches stand side by side, reflecting a long tradition of peaceful coexistence.

One of the city’s most historic landmarks is the Shrinathji Shri Krishna Temple. Over 200 years old and dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Krishna, it is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the GCC. Founded in 1817 by the Thattai Hindu Community (THC), who migrated from Sindh before the partition of India, it remains one of the oldest Hindu temples in the region. Visitors often marvel at its intricate design and serene atmosphere.

Manama is also home to the Sacred Heart Church in Bahrain is the first church to be built in the region, with its bells ringing for the first time on Christmas Eve, 24 December 1939. Since its establishment, it has been guided by dedicated leaders and became the first Christian community in Bahrain in 1938. Tourists are drawn to its beautiful interior, filled with religious murals, icons, and artworks, creating a truly spiritual experience.

The city’s diversity extends to Shia matams, with around 84 for men and 48 for women, the oldest Matam Al Bada back to 1275 AH. These institutions reflect Bahrain’s deep-rooted tradition of honoring various religious practices.

Speaking with one of the longtime residents of old Manama, we learned that the city has always been about humanity rather than religion. “There is no division between Muslims and Hindus here we are all human,” he said. 

Bahrain recently earned a spot in the Guinness World Records for having the highest density of houses of worship per square kilometer in the world 2.577 per km². This remarkable achievement highlights Manama’s commitment to tolerance and coexistence, where mosques, temples, and churches exist side by side.

In Manama, history, faith, and culture come together, making it a unique city that celebrates diversity and harmony in the heart of the Arabian Gulf.