The strategic location of the archipelago of Bahrain – the heart of Dilmun, and its political centre from 2050 BC - along major lines of communication with its natural wealth laid the foundation for an important marketplace as early as the 3rd millennium BC. Dilmun rapidly built its own trade network and gained considerable wealth by acting as a vital warehouse on the sea routes linking the Near East to the Indian Subcontinent.
The Hall of Dilmun illustrates the island’s cultural supremacy and trade hegemony. The display traces the chronological development of Bahrain from the Neolithic period to the Late Dilmun (5000 BC - 400 BC), and features the most important archaeological sites on the island and their distinguished findings. In addition to the unique collection of Dilmun stamp-seals, the Barbar temple treasures, the Saar settlement finds and the distinguished Dilmunite pottery constitute the highlights of the display.
