Bin Matar House - an old run down house in the woods
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Bin Matar House

4.4
·74 reviews·Muharraq, Bahrain

A historic Muharraq home transformed into a vibrant art gallery, showcasing local and international artists amidst preserved architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Bin Matar House - an old run down house in the woods

Bin Matar House

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Muharraq home transformed into a vibrant art gallery, showcasing local and international artists amidst preserved architecture.

4.4
(74 reviews)

"A beautiful house to go see exhibitions, very nice and gentle service."

Vertical photo
TIP

Start your Pearling Path walk

Bin Matar House is a great starting point for the historic Pearling Path. :world_map:

Check current exhibitions

Exhibitions change, so see what's on before you visit! :art:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Throughout the building

Experience the unique, preserved architecture of Muharraq, a testament to generations of family ties and the pearl trade.

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Main showrooms

Discover captivating works by emerging and established local and international artists in a dynamic gallery setting.

Salman Matar Family History

Salman Matar Family History

Main showrooms

Learn about the merchant Salman bin Matar, his family, and their deep connection to Bahrain's historic pearl trade.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & History

Bin Matar House blends Muharraq's rich architectural heritage with vibrant contemporary art. Explore its historic rooms and discover rotating exhibitions by local and international artists. Allow ample time to appreciate both the building's story and the art within.

Pearling Path Connection

Bin Matar House is a key starting point for the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While construction may be present, the path remains accessible. Visiting the house first provides context before embarking on your historical walk.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During exhibition openings
Why
Experience new art & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Pearling path

Start your Pearling Path walk

Bin Matar House is a great starting point for the historic Pearling Path. :world_map:

Check current exhibitions

Exhibitions change, so see what's on before you visit! :art:

Appreciate the building

Don't just see the art; admire the historic architecture too. :house:

Friendly staff

Enjoy the very nice and gentle service from the staff. :smiley:

Tips

from all over the internet

Start your Pearling Path walk

Bin Matar House is a great starting point for the historic Pearling Path. :world_map:

Check current exhibitions

Exhibitions change, so see what's on before you visit! :art:

Appreciate the building

Don't just see the art; admire the historic architecture too. :house:

Friendly staff

Enjoy the very nice and gentle service from the staff. :smiley:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(74 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Bin Matar House for its beautiful historic architecture and the quality of its rotating art exhibitions. The blend of cultural heritage and contemporary art, coupled with friendly service, makes it a highly recommended stop in Muharraq. Some visitors note that parking can be a challenge in the historic area.

"The Bin Matar House pays homage to the memory of Salman Matar and his family. It still stands today and has for many years, a symbol for generations’ ties to the unique architecture of Muharraq and distinctive quality that has distinguished this building since its founding.

Throughout the restoration work, great care was taken to preserve the unique architectural features while transforming part of it into an arts space which has since its opening in 2009 hosted a number of local, Arab and international exhibitions. The building also serves as a beautiful embodiment at the same time of the relationship between the merchant Salman bin Matar, his family, and the pearl trade. This history can be found in the main showrooms at the heart of the place."

Tyrone

"Beautiful house and the exhibition "Between two seas" of the artist Zuhair Al Saeed very interesting... about the evolution of Bahrain, the fight between nature and concrete... I loved it !"

Karen Meunier

"A beautiful house to go see exhibitions. Very nice and gentle service"

SUSANA BLANCO

What People Like

Beautiful historic architecture
Engaging art exhibitions
Friendly and gentle service

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bin Matar House is located in Muharraq. Taxis are readily available and a convenient way to reach it. If driving, be aware that parking might be limited in the historic district. It's also a key point on the Pearling Path, so it's accessible on foot if you're exploring that route. Reddit

Yes, Bin Matar House is an integral part of the Pearling Path, serving as a recommended starting point for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. Reddit

Exploring on foot is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historic architecture and the interconnectedness of the Pearling Path sites. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Bin Matar House is generally free, allowing visitors to explore the exhibitions and the historic building without a ticket purchase. :ticket:

Opening hours can vary, especially with rotating exhibitions. It's best to check the official Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Education website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :clock3:

While the historic nature of the building may present some challenges, efforts are often made to improve accessibility. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility details. :wheelchair:

Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or for certain exhibitions. :camerawithflash:

🎫 🖼️ Art & Exhibitions

Bin Matar House showcases a diverse range of art, from contemporary pieces by emerging Bahraini artists to works by established Arab and international figures. Exhibitions are often thematic and thought-provoking. :art:

Exhibitions at Bin Matar House are typically rotated periodically. It's recommended to check their schedule online or via social media to see what is currently on display. :calendar:

While the house itself is a historical exhibit, the focus is primarily on temporary and rotating art exhibitions. The building's history and its connection to the pearl trade are also highlighted. :gem:

Information regarding the purchase of artworks is usually available through the gallery staff or exhibition details. Inquire directly with the venue if you are interested in acquiring a piece. :moneybag:

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Bin Matar House is a historic building in Muharraq that embodies the unique architecture of the region and signifies the deep ties of families like Salman Matar to the pearl trade. It's a symbol of generations' connection to Bahrain's heritage. Reddit

The house features distinctive traditional Muharraq architecture, characterized by its unique quality and historical features that have been carefully preserved during restoration. :building_construction:

Salman Matar was a merchant whose family had strong ties to the pearl trade, and Bin Matar House stands as a testament to their legacy and connection to Bahrain's maritime history. Reddit

Historically, Bin Matar House served as a residence and a symbol of the merchant Salman bin Matar and his family's prosperity, deeply connected to the lucrative pearl trade. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Bin Matar House is a must-visit. The venue consistently features engaging exhibitions from local and international artists, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary art within a historically significant setting. The intimate scale of the gallery allows for a focused appreciation of each piece. Don't miss checking their schedule for current shows, as the art is always evolving. :art:

History Buffs & Culture Seekers

History buffs will appreciate Bin Matar House not only for its preserved traditional architecture but also for its role in the Pearling Path. It offers a glimpse into the lives of merchant families and their connection to Bahrain's vital pearl trade. The house itself is a testament to Muharraq's unique architectural heritage. :building_construction: :gem:

Day-Trippers Exploring Muharraq

If you're exploring Muharraq for the day, Bin Matar House is an excellent addition to your itinerary. It's easily accessible and provides a perfect blend of art and history. Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby Pearling Path for a comprehensive cultural experience. :worldmap: :camerawith_flash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Bin Matar House

Bin Matar House is more than just a historic building; it's a dynamic hub for contemporary art. Since its opening in 2009, it has consistently hosted a diverse array of exhibitions featuring both emerging and established talents from Bahrain, the wider Arab world, and internationally. The gallery spaces within the meticulously restored rooms provide a unique backdrop for artistic expression, allowing visitors to experience art in a setting steeped in history. The "Between two seas" exhibition by artist Zuhair Al Saeed, for instance, was noted for its compelling commentary on Bahrain's evolution and the interplay between nature and urban development. Reddit

This fusion of old and new is a key draw. Visitors often praise the 'lovely little gallery made in a historical house' for its intimate atmosphere and the quality of the art on display. The gentle and welcoming service further enhances the visitor experience, making it a place where art lovers can engage deeply with the works presented. Keep an eye on their schedule, as the exhibitions are frequently updated, offering new perspectives and artistic discoveries with each visit. InstagramReddit

A Journey Through Muharraq's Heritage

Bin Matar House is intrinsically linked to the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site that chronicles Bahrain's historic pearling industry. As a starting point or a key stop along this path, the house offers crucial context for understanding the economic and cultural significance of pearl diving to the region's past. The building itself, with its preserved architecture, is a living exhibit of the traditional Muharraq style, reflecting the prosperity brought by the pearl trade. Reddit

Visitors can explore the main showrooms to learn about the merchant Salman bin Matar and his family, whose lives were deeply intertwined with the sea and its precious bounty. The restoration of Bin Matar House was undertaken with great care to maintain its unique architectural features, ensuring that it stands as a symbol of generations' ties to the distinctive quality of Muharraq's historic buildings. Walking through its rooms provides a tangible connection to Bahrain's rich maritime heritage. Reddit

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