In order to discover Kuwait’s heritage is to enter into a living tissue of tradition, history, and culture. Stroll through the maze-like, alleyed streets that offer shelter for centuries-old mansions, coloured colourful bazaars, and palm trees which dance to the breeze, an aura of nostalgia slowly takes its grip on you. The country narrates how this city was turned into a pear diving and trading center—a bygone era which surrounds the air.
Pearl trading was the mainstay of Kuwaiti existence for centuries. Its modern-day visitors are usually overwhelmed by stories narrated in its ancient architecture and bazaars—architecture which was once as shiny and as colorful as pearls. A trip to the Kuwait National Museum is utilized to add additional context to this experience, where a phantom collage is utilized to depict Kuwait’s transformation from impoverished pearling village to city of the present. The museum galleries are brought to life, as they explain how pearls had established ways of life and social silks that persist to this day.
Between the past and future, the most enriching experience lies in between Souq Al-Mubarakiya. There, your senses are awakened by the scent of international spices, sight of traditional dress, and voice of lively chat. This souk is the soul and heart of Old Kuwait—a living history of Kuwait, with local cuisine and local handicraft like Machboos—a rice dish spiced—a warm welcome to envelop you with open arms. A stroll through its thin streets is an experience of the city’s character, rich and invigorating.
Down the thronged bazaar, mythic views like the Al Hamra Tower skyscraper and remodeled Al-Sadu House clash into jarring harmony old legend and new technology. Such a harmony of new and old is but one of many reasons Kuwait is a place to travel to. Stretching as it does, the city holds history—conjoining heritage and progress in the way just beyond most horizons.
Among other things you can be certain that you will notice are the Kuwait Towers. Standing tall above the city and sea, and especially lovely when viewed at sunset, the towers are perfect for contemplation. Looking down from the top, you might wonder how there ever was a little fishing village here, now a city.
Silence is concealed within souk’s noise and chaos. Palm-tree-lined park and hidden oases in old town’s ancient quarters are peaceful refuges. Those twisted, giant palms are symbols of Kuwait’s indomitable will—withstanding the impact of time and storm deserts like its people for centuries.
Last but not least, a walk through Old Kuwait is an hassle-free fairy tale—a vibrant patchwork of people’s stories, cultural richness, and traditions of yesteryears. Along its yellowed back alleys and stately courtyards, under palms and pearls, one is greeted warmly and open-heartedly invited to see the real charm of this Middle Eastern pearl.
