The capital of the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain, Manama is also the nation's largest city. Bahrain consists of Bahrain Island and some 30 smaller islands along the western edge of the Persian Gulf. Manama lies at the northeast tip of Bahrain Island. Once a small village focused on waterfront activities such as fishing, Manama has become a modern international city.

Places of interest

Manama is Arabic for “sleepy place,” however, the city is far from quiet. A majority of Bahrain's population lives in the capital. It is the cultural and financial center of the nation as well. The Al-Khamis Mosque is considered one of the oldest Islamic monuments in the region. Its foundation dates back to at least the 11th century AD. Another notable site in Manama is the Bahrain Fort, an ancient fortress that was last built up in the 16th century for defense against the Portuguese. The souk, or marketplace, is a busy center of activity where a variety of goods—from spices to gold watches—are sold. Manama also has several universities and museums.

Economy

For many years the economy of Manama was based on fishing, boat building, and pearl diving. In 1932 oil was discovered in the region. The production of oil soon became the largest part of Manama's economy. It helped to increase the city's wealth and led to the construction of many modern buildings. Service industries, such as banking, are important to Manama's economy as well.

Manama is also a busy shipping center. The development of a deepwater harbor in 1962 and improvements to the city's shipping facilities have helped Manama to become one of the most important ports in the Persian Gulf. Goods from ships are stored at the port and oceangoing vessels are docked off the city's coast.

History

Manama was first mentioned in religious texts in about AD 1345. The Portuguese conquered the city in 1521, followed by the Persians in 1602. In 1783 leaders of the Al Khalifah family from Arabia took control of Manama and the rest of Bahrain. The land eventually came under the control of Great Britain. In 1971 Bahrain became an independent nation with Manama as its capital. Population (1999 estimate), 162,000.