Is it possible that Thoban has been a place of rest for centuries? Maybe even a place of dreams. Welcome to Thoban in Manama. This town carries a name with possible origins in the Arabic word for “the place of rest” or “the place of dreams”.
Thoban’s story is intertwined with Bahrain’s. Bahrain is an island country in West Asia. It is made up of natural and artificial islands. Manama is Bahrain’s capital and largest city.
Bahrain’s history stretches back to the ancient Dilmun civilization. This civilization was a vital Bronze Age trade center. It connected Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Bahrain has been famed for its pearl fisheries since antiquity. These fisheries were the best in the world until the 19th century.
Islam arrived in Bahrain during Muhammad’s lifetime in 628 AD. After Arab rule, the Portuguese Empire controlled Bahrain from 1521 to 1602. Shah Abbas the Great of Safavid Iran expelled them. In 1783, the Al Khalifa royal family captured Bahrain. Ahmed al Fateh became Bahrain’s first hakim.
Bahrain became a British protectorate in the late 1800s. This followed treaties with the British. In 1971, Bahrain declared independence. It transitioned from an emirate to a semi-constitutional monarchy in 2002.
Bahrain developed a post-oil economy by investing in banking and tourism. Many global financial institutions operate in Manama. Bahrain is a high-income economy.
The name Bahrain comes from the Arabic word “Bahr”. It means “sea”. “Al-Bahrayn” means “the two seas”. There are several theories about which two seas are referenced. They could be the bays east and west of the island. They may also be the seas north and south. Another explanation involves the salt and fresh water found in Bahrain.
The islands have a generally flat and arid landscape. The highest point is the 134 m Mountain of Smoke. Land reclamation has increased Bahrain’s area.
Bahrain’s climate includes mild winters and very hot humid summers. Natural resources include oil natural gas and fish.
Bahrain is known for its biodiversity. Over 330 bird species have been recorded. The Hawar Islands are important for Socotra cormorant breeding.
Bahrain’s government is a semi-constitutional monarchy. King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa holds wide executive powers. The National Assembly has two councils. The King appoints the Shura Council. Citizens elect the Council of Representatives.
Bahrain has close ties with the United States. The United States Naval Forces Central Command is based in Bahrain.
Manama is a diverse city with a rich history. It has evolved from an ancient trading hub to a modern financial center. As you explore Thoban remember its connection to Bahrain’s past and present. Thoban and Manama continue to grow and change.