Take a fascinating journey back in time. Situated on the intersection of the Shaikh Hamad Manama-Muharraq causeway and King Faisal Highway, Bahrain National Museum isn't quite walking distance from Bab Al Bahrain but is just minimum fare if you take a taxi.

Built in 1988, the $34 million complex offers a comprehensive view of Bahrain through the ages. Arguably the most interesting of the exhibits in nine halls is a reconstructed ancient burial mound dating to around 2800 BC. The mound was actually plucked from the desert and reassembled in the museum.

Other fascinating exhibits depict life in the Dilmun era, 19th- and 20th-century pearl-diving scenes as well as community life. The museum is a virtual treasurehouse of history, and trust us when we say that even a day is too short to take in everything on display. All in all, this is one visit you'll be telling friends about for a long, long time.

For more information, call 1729 8777.

Seven layers of history. Historically, this is one of Bahrain's most important sites. The fort itself was built in the 14th century by the Portuguese but excavations at the site reveal six other distinct eras of the place, dating back to the Dilmun era, or around 3000 BC during which time it may have been the island's capital.

Splendid view across the valley. Built in 1812, the fort offers a splendid view across Hunanaiya valley. Until 1869, the site was the seat of government and a strategic location in its day. It is believed the fort was built on the ruins of a castle dating back to 1698.

A desert mystery. Far into the desert stands a broad, shady, mature mesquite tree in solitary splendour. The lone tree in a sea of sand almost seems like a mirage. To this day, the tree's source of water remains a mystery. Some believe it gets its nourishment from an underground spring but that doesn't explain the complete lack of vegetation in the vicinity. Local lore dates the tree in millenniums but botanists say it may be several hundred years old.