Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy in Bahrain

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2012
Size of heritage: 35,087 ha
- Buffer zone: 95,876 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 50,614°
Latitude: 26,241°

Summary

The site consists of seventeen buildings in Muharraq City, three offshore oyster beds, part of the seashore and the Qal’at Bu Mahir fortress on the southern tip of Muharraq Island, from where boats used to set off for the oyster beds. The listed buildings include residences of wealthy merchants, shops, storehouses and a mosque. The site is the last remaining complete example of the cultural tradition of pearling and the wealth it generated at a time when the trade dominated the Gulf economy (2nd century to the 1930s, when Japan developed cultured pearls). It also constitutes an outstanding example of traditional utilization of the sea’s resources and human interaction with the environment, which shaped both the economy and the cultural identity of the island’s society.

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Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bahrain

The UNESCO World Heritage site "Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy" is located in Bahrain, specifically at coordinates N26 14 28.608 E50 36 48.636. This site holds immense historical and cultural significance, as it represents the pearling industry that once thrived in the region and played a vital role in shaping Bahrain's economy and society.

History

The pearling industry in Bahrain dates back over 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest and most prosperous industries in the region. Pearls found in the waters surrounding Bahrain were highly sought after and considered some of the finest in the world. The industry reached its peak during the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting traders and divers from various parts of the world.

Bahrain's pearling industry was not only a source of economic prosperity but also played a significant role in shaping the social fabric of the island. It brought together people from diverse backgrounds, including Bahrainis, Persians, Indians, and Africans, who worked together in the pearling boats known as "dhows." This multicultural environment fostered a unique cultural exchange and contributed to the development of a distinct Bahraini identity.

Current State

Today, the UNESCO World Heritage site "Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy" stands as a testament to Bahrain's rich pearling heritage. The site encompasses three main components: the oyster beds, the buildings associated with pearling, and the sea routes used by the pearling dhows.

The oyster beds, located in the northern part of Bahrain, were the primary source of pearls. These beds were carefully managed and maintained by the pearl divers, who would dive into the depths of the sea to collect oysters. The oyster beds are now protected and serve as a reminder of the natural resources that sustained the pearling industry.

The buildings associated with pearling, found in the towns of Muharraq and Manama, showcase the architectural heritage of the pearling era. These buildings include houses, warehouses, shops, and mosques that were integral to the pearling industry. Many of these structures have been restored and transformed into museums, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past and the lives of those involved in pearling.