Manama, Bahrain’s capital, is modern, dominated by a Manhattan-style skyline. The souk lies in the center of the old town, near the archway of Bab al-Bahrain and, although much of the surrounding area is modern, the street layout and division of occupations still follow traditional lines: the gold souk, for example, is to be found to the southeast of the market area and is particularly impressive during the hours of darkness.
Much land, including the diplomatic area, has been reclaimed from the sea. The ancient city capital of Bilad al-Qadim, which dates from AD 900, is just outside the new city.