The History of Riffa, Bahrain



Riffa is a city located in the Kingdom of Bahrain, located in the southern part of the country. It is the second largest city in Bahrain, after Manama, and has a population of around 200,000. Riffa has a long and rich history, which can be traced back to the pre-Islamic era.

The city was first mentioned in the annals of history as a port city in the ancient Kingdom of Dilmun, which was an ancient civilization that flourished in the region between the 4th and 2nd millennia BC. The city was an important trading hub and port for the Dilmunites, and it was also the site of a major temple complex dedicated to the goddess Inanna.

In the early Islamic period, Riffa was part of the Uyunid Emirate, which was an independent state that was established in the 9th century. The Uyunids were responsible for the construction of many of the city’s monuments and buildings, including the Great Mosque of Riffa.

In the 16th century, Riffa was conquered by the Portuguese, who established a number of trading posts in the city. The Portuguese were eventually driven out by the Persians in 1602, and Riffa was made part of the Persian Empire.

In the 18th century, Riffa was taken over by the Al Khalifa family, who established the modern state of Bahrain. Under the Al Khalifa rule, Riffa flourished and became an important economic and cultural center. The city was also home to a number of important monuments, including the Great Mosque of Riffa, which was built in 1783.

Today, Riffa is an important commercial and industrial center in Bahrain, and it is also home to a number of important cultural and historical sites. It is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists. Riffa is also home to a number of important festivals, such as the Riffa Festival, which is held every year in February.

Riffa is a vibrant and diverse city, and it is a great place to explore the culture and history of Bahrain. Whether you’re interested in learning about the ancient Dilmun civilization or exploring the monuments and buildings of the Al Khalifa era, Riffa is sure to have something to offer.