Reviving historical towns in Muharraq

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Plans are underway to revive historical towns in Muharraq through housing projects. This comes as Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) President Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa yesterday received Housing Minister Bassim bin Yacub Al Hamar as they discussed cooperation for the project.

The meeting is within the framework of the ongoing cooperation between the two sides to consolidate the infrastructure of historical cities in the kingdom. Shaikha Mai reviewed the project to revive the “Bin Hindi” neighbourhood in Muharraq, stressing the importance of preserving the old city’s urban and heritage features. She affirmed BACA’s commitment to using all tools available to revive authentic neighbourhoods and enhance their infrastructure.

Al Hamar said that cooperation among the competent parties regarding historical towns will yield many projects that preserve them, affirming his constant readiness to work with BACA to enhance Bahrain’s cultural infrastructure and strengthen its civilisational status. Muharraq is home to traditional houses, some of which belong to local pearl merchants.

Bahrain was a major exporter of pearls during the Dilmun era and beyond. Unfortunately, the industry saw a decline in the 1930s after the discovery of oil in Bahrain, as well as the entry of Japanese cultured pearls into the market. This forced the merchants to move to other areas, but the government took steps to protect and refurbish the architectural heritage of the area.