Diraz Temple
A Dilmun-era temple on the north coast with unusual round-based stone columns.
Updated 3 September 2026
The temple at Diraz on Bahrain's north coast dates to around the early second millennium BC and is set apart from the island's other Dilmun sites by its columns, square-sectioned stone pillars standing on round bases, a form found nowhere else on the island. The layout suggests a courtyard with an altar. It sits in a residential area now, fenced but open, and takes a certain amount of looking to make sense of.
What you'll find
- The columns - square pillars on round bases, unique on the island.
- The courtyard plan - the layout suggesting an altar at the centre.
- The Dilmun date - construction in the early second millennium BC.
- The urban setting - the site now enclosed by a residential area.
When to go
November to March is the comfortable season. Late afternoon light is best. Summer heat on the open site is severe.
What to expect
The remains are low and fragmentary and hard to read without background. There is no interpretation on site. The residential surroundings affect the setting considerably.
Nearby
Barbar Temple is east, and Saar is south.
What to pack for Diraz Temple
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Modest clothing - Shoulders and knees covered - the single most common requirement. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A scarf or shawl - To cover the head or shoulders on entry; women especially at mosques. Find on Amazon
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