Restoration of Bahrain Forts
Qalat Arad, is a 15th-century fort built in the traditional Islamic forts style. It formerly guarded a separate island, before being joined to Muharraq island. Arad Fort was most recently restored between 1984 and 1987.
Arad Fort satellite view
In the past he controlled marine channel was preventing foreign ships to break through to the island.
The fort used to be surrounded by trench filled with water from wells.
In 1990s the surrounding area was rebuilt to suit festivals and celebrations
Only traditional materials were used for restoration.
Including coral stones, lime, sand, palm trunks.
No cement or other contemporary materials were utilized.
Remains of one of the four corner towers
Outside view on the tower
Arad Fort sea view
The fort is currently the part of Arad Fort Beach Park.
The Qal'at al-Bahrain, also known as Portuguese Fort, is an archaeological site located in North Bahrain. Archaeological excavations carried out since 1954 have unearthed antiquities from an artificial mound of 12 m containing seven layers, created by various occupants from 2300 BC up to the 18th century, including Kassites, Greeks, Portuguese and Persians. It was once the capital of the Dilmun civilization and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005.
Portuguese Fort satellite view
The fort in 1870
Only 25% of area was excavated.
Replica of reed huts
The Danish archaeological expedition led by Geoffrey Bibby. 1950s.
1950s
2010s
View on the main gate before restoration
Portuguese Fort satellite view
The fort first year after rejuvenation (picture taken from inside the ditch)
Before rejuvenation
Locally mined materials were used for the restoration
View on the modern capital
Eastern wall view
Eastern wall nowadays
Eastern wall (details)
Western side of the fort. The Portuguese occupation lasted from 1521 till 1602.
One of the towers before
…and after
Remains of the towers then‌
and now
Doorway leading to one of the rooms before and after
View on the Western tower
Restored
Bahrain: Ancient. Old. Growing.