Why it's the capital
Muharraq, on the neighbouring island, was the capital of Bahrain until 1923, while Manama grew into the main centre of trade. When Bahrain became independent in 1971, the new state named Manama its capital.
Manama
Capital of BahrainManama lies on the northeastern coast of Bahrain Island, the main island of Bahrain, in the Persian Gulf between Qatar and the coast of Saudi Arabia.
Fun facts
- Some say the name comes from an Arabic word meaning 'the place of rest' or 'the place of dreams'.
- Manama is first mentioned by name in a manuscript from 1345.
- The Portuguese built the Bahrain Fort on the outskirts of Manama to strengthen their hold on the island.
Finding it on the globe
Bahrain is a small island country off the coast of Saudi Arabia, north-west of the Qatar peninsula. Manama is on the island's northeast corner.
Sources: Wikipedia: Manama, Wikipedia: Bahrain