An exhibition showcasing one of Bahrain’s most historical towns is being held at the Bahrain National Museum, highlighting its 90-year and continuing legacy.
The Awali Exhibition is being organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca), in collaboration with Bapco Energies.
The opening was attended by Baca president Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, officials from the Oil and Environment Ministry, members of Bapco Energies’ executive management and prominent figures from Bahrain’s cultural scene.
Shaikh Khalifa said that Awali holds a significant place in Bahrain’s modern history and in the hearts of its people. “Awali represents a defining chapter in the country’s urban and social development,” he explained.
“Its distinctive planning and architecture offer valuable insights into everyday life during a period of profound change.
“Baca remains committed to strengthening partnerships that deepen public understanding of Bahrain’s history and architectural heritage. And, we greatly value the support of Bapco Energies and its continued commitment to cultural initiatives.
“Through this collaboration, we’re able to shed light on an important chapter in our nation’s history and share its legacy with the wider public.”
The exhibition traces the origins of Awali, from the early search for oil in the Jebel Dukhan area and the initial stages of construction in 1934.
It shows its development into a planned town that brought together residential areas, workplaces, services and public facilities within a comprehensive urban plan.
It also highlights Awali’s pioneering approaches to architecture, planning and infrastructure, which introduced new methods and technologies into everyday life in Bahrain at the time.
More than 90 years after construction began, Awali remains a thriving town, with its historic streets, houses, gardens and community facilities still in use.
It stands as a living testament to an important period in Bahrain’s modern history and the changes that accompanied the emergence of the oil industry and helped shape everyday life across the kingdom.
The exhibition provides visitors with a unique look into life, architecture and the cultural evolution of the area. To complement the launch, Darseen Cafe has even highlighted special culinary features, such as the Bapco Club-inspired menu celebrating the heritage of the era.
Founded in the 1930s, the Bapco Club stood as a vibrant social hub of Bahrain’s early oil era, acting as a melting pot of cultures and bringing together residents and visitors for recreation and community events.
Bapco Energies group chief executive officer Mark Thomas expressed his pride in the exhibition. “Awali forms an integral part of Bahrain’s modern history and is closely linked to the development of the kingdom’s oil and energy industry,” he said. “The exhibition contributes to preserving the kingdom’s heritage and documenting key milestones that have shaped Bahrain’s economic and social identity.”
n It is open to the public on every day from 9am to 8pm, except Tuesdays when the museum is closed.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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