The narrow rows of stalls at the Bab el-Bahrain souk are famous for their vast array of perfumes, spices, and gold.

This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of Manama, capital of the island nation of Bahrain, is a major financial center with a thriving economy.

Although Bahrain is an Islamic country, alcohol is legal, and Manama has a thriving nightlife, with clubs and bars popular with visitors from all over the world. A surplus of money has decorated the skyline with glass and steel spires, and plans for the tallest tower in the world.

First mentioned in Islamic chronicles about ad 1345, it was taken by the Portuguese (1521) and by the Persians (1602).

City Centre Bahrain.

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.Long an important commercial centre of the northern Persian Gulf, the traditional economy was based on pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade. Be on the lookout for your Britannica newsletter to get trusted stories delivered right to your inbox.Articles from Britannica Encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.

Manama, capital of the island nation of Bahrain, is a major financial center with a thriving economy.

Our most popular tours and activities. Manama, Arabic Al-Manāmah, capital and largest city of the state and emirate of Bahrain. Other experiences in Manama.

The headquarters of the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), however, are at

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Gift & Speciality Shops.

Create a Trip to save and organize all of your travel ideas, and see them on a mapPlaces to see, ways to wander, and signature experiences.Legendz SteakHouse InterContinental Regency Bahrain

About one-fifth of the emirate’s population lives in the city. 1,530 Reviews #1 of 20 Shopping in Manama.

1,530 Reviews #1 of 20 Shopping in Manama. City Centre Bahrain.

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The discovery of petroleum on Bahrain (1932) revolutionized the city’s economy and appearance, with the construction of many modern buildings.

History at your fingertips It lies at the northeast tip of Bahrain island, in the Persian Gulf.

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Things to do in Manama ; City Centre Bahrain; Search.

Things to Do in Manama ; City Centre Bahrain; Search.

Get the full experience and book a tour. 1,530 Reviews #1 of 20 Shopping in Manama. Get the full experience and book a tour.

Other experiences in Manama. Harbour facilities were poor; ocean vessels had to anchor in the open roadstead 2–4 miles (3–6 km) offshore. 1,530 Reviews #1 of 20 Shopping in Manama.

City Centre Bahrain.

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City Centre Bahrain.

Manama developed as a trade, financial, and commercial centre; it is the seat of numerous banks.

This is most apparent in Manama's Souq, where the hustle and bustle still evokes an ancient bazaar, and the globally diverse local cuisine is slowly elevating the city into a foodie destination. Nearby Experiences .

Nearby Experiences . Recommended.

Our most popular tours and activities. A surplus of money has decorated the skyline with glass and steel spires, and plans for the tallest tower in …