Built in 1812, Rifa Fort (Qal'at ar-Rifa') in Bahrain offers a splendid view across the Hunanaiya valley. Rifa was the seat of government until 1869, and was strategically important during its day. Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, the present Amir's great great-grandfather, ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932. His house in Muharraq provides a glimpse of royal life in the 19th century, complete with architecture and wall carvings belonging to that era. It is also one of the best places to feel the amazing effects of the wind tower.