this is the oldest Mosque in Bahrain, as we understood, but is basically a ruin. Appreciate the historical significance but kept other expectations low.

From an information plaque in the 'visitor center'. The Al-Khamis mosque is the oldest extant mosque in Bahrain, and as such has a very special identity on the islands. The buildings we see today dates largely from the 12th to 13th centuries CE, tradition claims the original mosque was built in the early 8th century CE. The area in which the mosque stands is Bilad al-Qadim, which translates as "The Old Town" or "The Old Country", and history and archaeology show that people have been living here since at least the 8th Century CE. This is a nice site that has three main sections, first the entrance with is hosts a small visitor centre where you can see aerial photos of the old town, gravestones, artefacts, old coins, gems, pearls etc. Next is a large open space where you can see remains of the old structures, a shrine (which has sadly collapsed) and then the Mosque itself. The pavement has a very gently slope so getting around is easy and the site can be completed by wheelchair or buggy (not including inside the mosque). The entire site is really well maintained and spotlessly clean. There are two minarets that you can enter and climb to see out of the windows but these are very narrow and small so adults may struggle getting in. Overall its a very enjoyable site and well worth a visit if you have never been before. Entrance is free as is parking, there are toilets on site and you don't need to either wear a head covering for women and shorts are OK for men. Please be aware that there is a 3meter deep well close to the footpath that is not fenced off, something to bear in mind if you have young children that like to run ahead. Great for photography.