Arad Fort, an Islamic-styled fort located in the waters of Muharraq, is the first landmark visitors are greeted with while entering the country from the Bahrain International Airport. Being built in the 15th century, this Islamic fort was made to defend against foreign invasion.
It was strategically built to safeguard the island. Arad Fort saw multiple powers go into control, including the Portuguese, Persians, and the Omanis. History suggests that during the Portuguese occupation, the Arad Fort was an important defense point to guard Bahrain’s waterways and take control over trade routes in the Gulf. Similarly, under the Omani rule, they aimed to secure the island from external threats and maintain a stronghold. But, in the 19th Century, the island saw a power that could stay; the current ruling dynasty, the Al Khalifa Family, overthrew them to make the current successful country.
The Architecture of Arad Fort
This UNESCO World Heritage-certified site is a simple square Islamic fort of its era because it focuses on functionality over carvings or ornamentation. The fort’s square structure features a rounded watchtower at all four corners, offering 360-degree views of the surroundings, which is important for surveillance and defense.
Its design reflects the reality of the era. Unlike modern expectations of grandeur, the fort does not have decorative carvings, colorful paint, or complex finishes. However, the defense was given more through architecture, with thick stone walls and strategically placed openings to allow the defenders to fire cannons and firearms. In contrast, there is protection and, a moat filled with seawater surrounds the fort, an extra barrier for delaying the invaders and giving the defenders time to respond to their attacks. A narrow bridge provided the sole access point to the fort, enhancing security.
Arad Fort construction relied entirely on locally sourced materials, including coral stones and limestones, to combat the intense Bahrain heat through insulation. Palm tree trucks were used as modern-day beams to support the ceilings, and coral and gypsum acted as concrete to bind the structure together. During its restoration process for conservation, the same traditional materials were reused to maintain the fort’s historical integrity.
Historical Significance and Influence
Arad Fort is a testament to Bahrain’s history; during the Portuguese occupation, the fort was likely adapted to their military needs by incorporating European defense strategies; later, Persian and Omani rulers modified it to suit the fort to their strategies and purposes. Each power left subtle imprints, making the fort a document of Bahrain’s past.
Today, the Arad Fort reflects Bahrain’s resilience and symbolises the successful adaptability of the fort from different periods to the Al Khalifa dynasty.
Unlike many inland forts, Arad Fort is situated at the coast, which is an uncommon defensive feature in the region and gives the fort a dual purpose: guarding the naval invasion and controlling the island.
The Present use of Arad fort
Arad Fort offers an amazing experience for visitors; the experience includes guided tours that reveal the fort’s rich history and historical row. Periodic cultural festivals and educational workshops are held at the site, inviting the locals and tourists to celebrate Bahrain’s heritage. It is also an exceptional site for photographers and history enthusiasts, as the moat and the reflection of the fort create beautiful scenes, especially during the sunsets. During events like the Bahrain International Music Festival, the fort comes alive with performances with a backdrop of the fort’s walls, blending heritage with modern art.
But why conserve the Arad fort?
Preserving Arad Fort is beyond maintaining a historical site; it is about safeguarding the like between Bahrain’s past, present, and future. The fort is one of Bahrain’s symbols of cultural identity. Another reason is that once lost, it can no longer be recreated, and by doing so, we destroy the links of familiarity between different generations. This fort also boosts tourism in the country, thus increasing the economy and foot traffic in Muharraq, which will, in turn, support small businesses and show the culture of Bahrain.
A Fort Worth experiencing
Arad Fort is more than just a document of the past. It is a symbol of a gateway to a rich heritage. Walking through the thick stone walls, crossing the ancient moat, and standing on top of its watchtower gives a glimpse of the previous eras. Its design’s simplicity contrasts beautifully with its history’s complexity, making it a must-visit.
Whether you appreciate its indigenous defensive features, enjoy the peace in its surroundings, or attend the cultural festivals the fort offers, Arad Fort offers an experience that lingers long even after one’s visit. It’s not just a site to see; it’s a story to be a part of. If one is in Bahrain, missing Arad Fort would mean missing the soul of the island’s heritage. This fort is a journey into the heart of Bahrain’s history.
References:
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Citation of Images:
- Arad Fort (Website) Every Castle https://everycastle.com/arad-fort/
- Holes for Canons Pointbh (Website) https://www.pointbh.com/places/arad-fort/#google_vignette
- Arad fort with the moat Bahrain Authority for Tourism and Antiquities (Website) https://culture.gov.bh/en/
- Cultural Festival at Arad Fort GDN life (Website) https://www.gdnlife.com/Home/ArticleDetail?ArticleId=46910&category=14
- 5_Interior of Arad Fort (Photographer) Omri Westmark https://explanders.com/africa-middle-east/bahrain/manama/arad-fort/
