Ralph Applebaum Associates

The Bahrain National Charter Monument was commissioned by HM King Hamad al-Khalifa as a “gift to the people” of Bahrain, and to honor the 2002 National Charter. RAA worked with the Royal Court of Bahrain to design the permanent exhibition for this prestigious Monument.

Through immersive media and engaging displays, the exhibition explores the nation’s character and values, from past to future. The history of the royal family is explored in depth, along with the importance of the National Charter to the lives of Bahrainis.

The traditional crafts of Bahrain are explored in depth. Visitors can rotate a 3D model of a traditional dhow ship and find out how it was built. The trading table game, a large, circular projection with four dials, allows the visitor to steer their own dhow on a journey across four oceans whilst battling storms, pirates, and even a giant squid. The pearl industry is explored through games, which allow you to be a pearl diver, to make your own pearl necklace, and to become an expert in judging pearl quality. Modern industries are also represented, emphasizing the importance of the contribution of the people of Bahrain.

A river of names flows across screens, with information about thousands of Bahrainis who have contributed to the country’s success. Both adults and children can vote for the actions which they believe are most important to the country and see how others voted before them, with the results displayed on a huge video-wall. Children can add their name onto the digital wall at the end of the exhibition.

The Monument is a unique cultural institution that goes beyond the traditional notions of conserving and preserving history to also embrace civic responsibility and community engagement.