Description of the attraction
According to research by historians, Fort Riffa was built as a defensive structure during the reign of Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa in 1812. Other sources claim that the fortification was erected during the reign of the Persian Safavid Empire (Iran) in Bahrain around the 17th century. The fort was converted into the residence of Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed (Al Fatih) Al Khalifa in the 19th century.
From the fortress of Riffa (pronounced in Arabic "Kalat-Ar-Rifai"), there is an excellent view of the Hunania Valley. The city of Riffa was the capital of Bahrain until 1896, the buildings were the seat of the government, thus the fortress was a strategically important object at that time. The house of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al-Khalifa, who ruled in Bahrain from 1869 to 1932, is located on the territory of the fort. His dweller in Muharraq gives an insight into the luxurious life in the 19th century, the architecture and carvings in the decoration of the royal dwelling. It is also one of the best places to feel the strength of the wind of the surrounding desert while standing on a tower.
The fort is quite spacious inside. It was divided into separate corps for the Amir army and the living area of the royal family. The fort has a water reservoir and a good drainage system.
The museum operating in the fortress is open to the public. Among its exhibits is a section of Arabic calligraphy, including beautiful manuscripts of the Koran, elements of traditional crafts and crafts, photographs, models and other artifacts that tell about the life and sources of well-being of Bahrain before the discovery of oil fields.
