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Forts of Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is famed all over the world for housing some of the world’s most historic battlements and crenellations in the form of awe-inspiring forts that are dotted everywhere along the country’s landscape: perched upon mountaintops, or nestled within deep ravines. Each fort has distinctive engineering and architectural features that showcase the intellect of the architects in designing elaborate fortifications to secure the land from foreign enemies.

THE JABRIN CASTLE

Standing proud for more than 340 years since its inception in 1670, the Jabrin Castle is one of the country’s most fascinating and awe-inspiring buildings, full of amazing details, intricate frescoes, and elaborate inscriptions that distinguish it from the Sultanate’s other castles. Built as the palace of Imam Bil Arab Bin Sultan Al Ya’rabi, and housing his final resting place, the Jabrin Castle is an authentic expression of Omani craftsmanship. From the top, the views of the Al Hajar foothills render stunning photographic opportunities for the visitor. 

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Jabrin, 20km from Bahla
  • Governorate: Al Dakhiliyah
Tips:

Make sure to check out the Jabrin Castle’s most famous rooms: The Sun & Moon Room, which was used by the Imam for discussions and consultations, and The Imam Protection Room, which the Imam’s soldiers used to hide in when he was meeting someone he did not trust. Both rooms are adorned with beautiful Islamic calligraphy and motifs.

 

THE NIZWA FORT

Considered to be the largest of its kind on the Arabian Peninsula, the Nizwa Fort towers above its surroundings, standing as a reminder of the important status that the city of Nizwa once held as the Islamic, political and cultural capital of Oman. Built over a span of 12 years by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’rubi in the middle of the 17th century on top of the remains of a 9th century castle, this enormous fort features a huge central tower which has an outer diameter of 43 meters. Access to the tower is through a series of narrow corridors and dark, dingy staircases that are guarded by thick, spiked wooden doors.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Old Nizwa, Nizwa
  • Governorate: Al Dakhiliyah
Tips:

View the Nizwa Fort’s exhibition hall that contains information regarding the history of the fort, its construction and architecture, to fully appreciate the status of this important building.

THE BAHLA FORT

The fort is one of the oldest and largest in Oman and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is believed to have been built in the 13th century. Over the years the Fort was used as a residence for Government officials and defensive purposes. The fort is built of mud bricks and is surrounded by a wall with watchtowers and battlements. The Fort has several buildings inside, including a mosque, a well, and living quarters. 
Bahla Fort is an excellent example of traditional Omani architecture and is considered one of the most important historical sites in the country. The fort has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, including a major restoration in the 1990s. 

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Bahla
  • Governorate: Al Dakhiliyah

THE IBRI FORT

Built more than 400 years ago, the Ibri Fort stands at the site of utmost prominence in the city of Ibri, where merchants travelling between different regions of the Arabian Peninsula stopped to trade their goods. The area today has become home to the bustling Ibri Souq, which is full of traditional handicrafts and silverware. The fort contains an old mosque, characterized by its roof made of compressed gravel.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Ibri, Al Dhahirah
  • Governorate: Al Dhahirah

BARKA FORT

Barka is famed in Omani history for being the site of the ousting of the Persians by Ahmed Bin Said in 1747. Having been renovated in the 1980s, the fort has four towers, one of which has an unusual octagonal structure. The fort renders an excellent view of the sea and its surrounding areas.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Barka
  • Governorate: South Al Batinah

AL HAZM FORT & CASTLE

The Hazm Castle is a marvel of the architectural prowess of its builders, and is a vivid example of Islamic constructional masterpieces. Built in 1711 by Imam Sultan Bin Saif the 2nd, the Hazm Fort and Castle has an extensive network of tunnels and dungeons. The colossal wooden doors are intricately carved, and have receptacles for pouring boiling oil or date honey on intruders. Set on the banks of a wadi, this building is a great place to explore.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : En route to Rustaq from Muscat/20km from Rustaq
  • Governorate: South Al Batinah

NAKHAL FORT

Nestled amongst the lush palm orchards of the Nakhal wilayat in the governorate of South Al Batinah, the Nakhal Fort is one of the most prominent of historical monuments in Oman. This immense fortification holds a commanding position in the town with stunning views of the wadi and green plantations. The most interesting aspect of the Nakhal Fort is that it seems to have been constructed with no particular architectural plan; built around an irregularly shaped rock, the rock has become a part of the building itself

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Nakhal/120km from Muscat
  • Governorate: South Al Batinah

RUSTAQ FORT

Originally built in 1250, the Rustaq Fort was refurbished to its original state in the 16th century. This fort takes many visitors by surprise due to its small entrance that opens up to colossal walls. Consisting of two floors, in addition to the ground floor, which house weapon stores, a mosque, prison, and water wells, the Rustaq Fort has four towers: The Red Tower, The Wind Tower, The Devil’s Tower, and The Modern Tower. Climbing to the highest point of the towers gives a view of the beautiful mountains in the distance.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Rustaq
  • Governorate: Al Batinah South

SOHAR FORT & MUSEUM

The 13th century fort of Sohar holds the fascinating Sohar Fort Museum within its walls which regales the details of the history of the city of Sohar, home to the fictional character Sinbad the Sailor, and the historical figure of Ahmed Bin Majid, a sailor who helped Vasco de Gama navigate to the Cape of Good Hope in 1498. Being an imminent historical landmark, the Sohar Fort Museum also highlights the important role played by the copper trade in this city and its relationship with the city of Canton in China.

Timings : Daily, 08.00AM – 02.00PM/04.00PM – 06.00PM
  • Location : Sohar
  • Governorate: Al Batinah

AL HILA FORT

Being the backdrop to Buraimi’s market square, stands the 450 year old Al Hila Fort, once home to the Al Nuami tribe until 1980. Imposing and large, this fort features many unique rooms and long corridors with traditional architecture and motifs, making it a great place to explore. A staircase leading to the roof gives a panoramic view of the town, the market, and the neighbouring Al Khandaq Castle.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Buraimi, next to Al Buraimi Market
  • Governorate: Al Buraimi

AL KHANDAQ CASTLE

Al Khandaq Castle is considered to be one of the most important monuments in Al Buraimi. Its construction goes back to the second half of the 19th century, when it was renovated under the reign of Imam Azzan bin Qais Al Busaidi. Being a square structure with inner and outer walls, the castle is named after the presence of a large trench surrounding it on all sides. This fort is used for music and poetry evenings, as well as graduation ceremonies, and commands an excellent view of the surrounding area. It is worth mentioning that the Governorate of Al Buraimi takes Al Khandaq Castle as its emblem.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Buraimi, from the Market Square
  • Governorate: Al Buraimi

BILAD SUR CASTLE

Believed to have been constructed in 1800 with an objective of warding off enemy tribes, the Bilad Sur Castle is a majestic fortress that stands proudly on the Bilad Sur Plain. The castle consists of different towers known as A’Souq, Jalan, Al Khandaq, and an extraordinarily shaped fourth one that has two stories.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Sur, left off the Main Street
  • Governorate: South Al Sharqiyah

SUNAYSILAH FORT

This fort was built on a hill located in the middle of Snaisla Arae.
The Fort was built about 450 years ago, in the sixteenth century AD.
The castle is built on a classic square plan with four round watchtowers. It was one of the important defensive system of Sur. The rooms inside the castle have various traditional artefacts like poetry, Quran stands, carpets etc . One can’t miss the castle, as its presence looms over the town centre.The Fort Offers a magnificent view of the Sur City

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Snaisla, Tyre, Wilayat Sur
  • Governorate: South Al Sharqiyah

KHASAB CASTLE & KAMADRA FORT

The Khasab Castle was constructed over the ruins of the Old Portuguese castle that was erected in the 17th century to keep a watchful eye on the Strait of Hormuz. A short walk away is the smaller Kamadra Fort which has spectacular mountain views from its battlements.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Khasab
  • Governorate: Musandam

BAKHA FORT

Built by Saif Bin Sultan Al Ya’rubi in the early 17th century, the Bakha Castle can be viewed from the Bakha Fort, which has an unusual pear shaped watch tower, which was believed to repel cannon fire more readily than conventional straight sided towers. Dazzling vistas of the golden mountains behind and the turquoise waters of the ocean ahead render photographic opportunities not to be missed.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Bakha
  • Governorate: Musandam

AL JALALI FORT

Built in the 1580s by the Portuguese, the Al Jalali Fort (also known as the A’Sharqiyah Fort) is situated in Old Muscat and overlooks the stunning Sea of Oman. The fort consists of two imposing towers connected by a wall punctuated by holes for cannons. The building is completely isolated and cannot be accessed from its rocky façade; instead there is a small bridge and stairway ending at one of the holdouts for a safe exit.
Visitors can view the castle only from the outside.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am - 01:00 pm / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm
  • Location : Old Muscat, Muscat
  • Governorate: Muscat

AL MIRANI FORT

Also known as the Al Gharbiya Fort, the Al Mirani Fort is the neighbouring bastion of the Al Jalali Fort that renders a marvelous spectacle of the Omani-Portuguese architecture of the early times.Commanding a sight of high rocky hills at the end of the west wall, it can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs carved into the rock. A large dock is built at the base of the mountain, and visitors can view the castle only from the outside.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am - 01:00 pm / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm
  • Location : Old Muscat, Muscat
  • Governorate: Muscat

MUTTRAH FORT

Located on top of rocky hills, the Muttrah Fort stands tall against the sea and strong winds that waft the fragrant memory of ships gone by, ships that once sailed these azure waters. Built by the Portuguese in the 1580s, this fort dominates the eastern end of the Muttrah Harbour, and consists of three circular towers: a huge one sitting on the summit and the other two are located to the west and the north.
Tel: 97031433, 91130765

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am - 01:00 pm / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm
  • Location : Muttrah Corniche
  • Governorate: Muscat

Quriyat Fort

Qurayat Fort is one of the most important historical landmarks of Muscat Governorate. Opinions differed on the date of its establishment and who built it, which highlights the crucial roles it has played since its establishment until the present time. The Fort is built with plaster and gravel and has an unequal shape (polygonal). This Fort has a rooms for the soldiers, family accommodation, dedicated sitting room for women, and rooms for children. All rooms overlook the open courtyard of the castle. The high tower was used for monitoring and sending messages. The idea of its architecture came to serve defensive purposes by creating a defensive system in the circular tower that contains slots for aiming to fire cannons, bolts for firing rifles and the Fort’s defensive entrance system, which includes openings above the door used to pour hot honey on the attackers.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am - 01:00 pm / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm
  • Location : located in the Al-Souq neighborhood of the Wilayat of Qurayat
  • Governorate: Muscat

Bayt Al Maqham

Considered as one of the ancient historical monuments in the Muscat Governorate, Bait Al Muqhem is located in the Wilayat of Bausher. This fortified house was known as the House of Al-Muqhem because it is located in Hillat Al-Muqhem in the Bausher suburb. It was also known as the “Big House” because it was the largest historical house in the neighborhood. It is also called the house of Mrs. Thuraya, who lived in the twelfth century AH, and it is mentioned that she was the one who built it. Al-Maqhem House consists of several entrances and corridors, has three floors, and was designed in the form of an impregnable castle. Bait Al Muqhem last restored from 2007 AD to 2011 AD. 

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Bawshar
  • Governorate: Muscat

Taqah Castle

The construction of this Fort dates back to the 19th century AD. It is a rectangular building with a length of (33.8m) and a width of (15.5m). It consists of two floors and has two towers on the western side.
It is considered one of the most prominent historical monuments in the Wilayat of Taqah because of its vital role as an administrative center for the affairs of the state in the past. The Fort was used as an important center for Government functions, in addition to being the residence of successive governors. Taqah Fort is characterized by its beautiful, high-level artistic colors and its multiple windows, which are equipped with interlocking wooden curtains and arches that look like keyholes in their shape. It is characterized by the collections and exhibits of crafts from various marine, rural and desert environments.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Taqah Wilayat, Salalah
  • Governorate: Dhofar

Mirbat Castle

Mirbat Fort is one of the prominent historical landmarks in the Wilayat of Mirbat. The total area of the Fort is 467 square meters and its height is 12 meters. The building consists of two floors and contains two towers, one in the southwest corner and the other in the southeast corner. 
This fort has played active defensive and administrative roles throughout history, and this fort was used as a state administration center. It was also the residence of many governors and officials.
The Castle was renovated last in 1992-1993 AD

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Wilayat of Mirbat
  • Governorate: Dhofar

Sadah Castle

Sadah Fort is located in the Wilayat of Sadah, and it is considered the last eastern fortification of the Dhofar coast. It was used to protect the region during wars. It is mentioned that it was built during the reign of Sayyid Taymur bin Faisal (1332-1351 AH / 1913-1932 AD), and its importance increased during the reign of Sultan Saeed bin Taymur (1351). -1390 AH / 1932-1970 AD).
The fort consists of three floors: The first floor includes Al-Barza (it is a reception council in which people’s cases are decided by the governor, the judge, and the notables of the region). The second floor was used as a residence for the governor, while the third floor includes wings and a tower used by the soldiers.
The Fort was restored in 1991 AD

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Sadah Wilayat
  • Governorate: Dhofar

Kout Hamran

Designed in the form of a Fort, Kout Hamran is built on flat land located in the Hamran Plain in Dhofar Governorate. The Fort was built in the first half of the twentieth century during the reign of Sayyid Taymur bin Faisal (1332-1351 AH / 1913-1932 AD). The Fort is a square building consisting of two floors. The ground floor includes Barzah, and a large store, and the first floor contains three rooms. The Fort was constructed with local materials like limestone (cut stone), clay, sarooj, and rakrak wood. The last renovation was carried out in 1991 AD. 

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Salalah Wilayat
  • Governorate: Dhofar

Al Kamzra Castle

The Fort is located on flat land in Haret Al Kamazra in the Wilayat of Khasab. Its construction dates back to the era of Faisal bin Turki in 1898 AD. Local materials like sarooj (water-resistant mortar), stones, and clay were used in its construction. The fort is a square-shaped building with two circular towers located on opposite corners, connected by a wall that reaches a height of three and a half meters. Inside the Fort, there are some residential rooms, in addition to the presence of special rooms for ammunition and weapons. There is a well in the middle of the courtyard of the fort. 
The Fort was restored in the years 2005-2006 AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Kamazara
  • Governorate: Musandam

Dibba castle

The Fort is on a flat land in the Wilayat of Dibba. It was built 180 years ago by the Shihuh in their war with the Qawasim to protect the area. The castle is square and consists of four internal towers and four external towers.The Square has four rooms (a council, a mosque, a room for servants, and a prison), and it consists of two floors. There are swords, cannons, and archaeological and heritage holdings that characterize the region displayed.
In 1983, the Musandam Development Committee removed the Fort and in 1989 AD, His Majesty the Sultan visited the Wilayat of Dibba and ordered the construction of the fort. Its construction was based on the Portuguese maps of the Fort, and it was built in the previous form of the fort and was inaugurated on Monday, corresponding to June 13, 1994 AD.
The Fort has last restored in 1992 AD -1993 AD, and the fort was inaugurated on

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Bayaa area in the Wilayat of Dibba
  • Governorate: Musandam

Madha Castle

The Fort is located at the Foot of the mountain in Al-Hawami village. The Fort was built in the nineteenth century by Sheikh Salem bin Abdullah Muhammad Al-Madhani, during the reign of Sayyid Turki bin Saeed (1288-1306 AH / 1871-1888).
The fort is a circular (semi-circular) building, built of mud and gravel, and consists of two floors, with a height of about 6 mt. Its architectural plan consists of a military and watch tower, a square castle, a warehouse, a prison, and living rooms.
The fortification includes a broad and low wall, about 500 meters long, about 100 meters wide, and about 1.5 meters high. The tower was used to defend the town and protect the property and residents. In 1392 AH / 1972 AD, Sheikh Muhammad bin Salem Al Madhani added to the Fort a square-shaped castle consisting of two floors built with stones and cement. He also restored the tower during the reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al-Zaher.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Madha Wilayat
  • Governorate: Musandam

Sohar Fort

Sohar Castle, overlooking the Sea of Oman, was built in the 7th century AH/13 AD or 8 AH/14 AD. It is a rectangular building in white color with four bastions, one of which does not have openings for cannons, while the other three bastions are semi-circular with a number of cannons. The castle also has a high tower consisting of three floors and a number of water wells.
Sohar Castle in terms of architectural composition is considered a fortress, and the castle has been used throughout different times as a center of political and administrative authority and military leaders. The castle was renovated at different times, the last of which was during the prosperous era (1983-1985 AD), and turned into a museum for the history of Sohar.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Sohar
  • Governorate: North Al Batina

Al khbourah Castle

Al-Khaboura Fort is 53 meters long and 24 meters wide and is surrounded by high walls built of mud bricks. The fort was used as the seat of government and management of state affairs due to its strategic location. Al-Khaboura Fort consists of several rooms, including rooms for guards, rooms for visitors, a room for storing foodstuffs and weapons, and two rooms for the governor’s residence.
The Fort has two towers, one of them is circular in shape with a diameter of 7.5 meters, in the southeastern corner, and there is a rectangular tower or bastion with a width of 7.5 meters located in the circular corner.
The main entrance of the fort is located on the northern side, with two cannons at the entrance, the fort was last renovated in 1994 AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Khaboura
  • Governorate: North Al Batinah

As Suwayq Fort

Located about 25 meters away from the beach, Al-Suwaiq Fort is built on high ground, with the town of Al-Suwaiq Al-Qimah, the well-known market, on its western side. The length and the width of the fort are approximately 60 meters x 43 meters. The exact date of its construction is not known, but some assumptions attribute it to the late period of the Arab state and the beginning of the Busaidi state. That is, in the second half of the eighteenth century AD. The structure of the castle / fort is a rectangular building that includes three corner circular towers and a square shape in the northwest corner. The main entrance to the fort is located facing the sea coast. It has a fortified square, and a council for the governor is connected to his residence through an underground passage. Its courtyard was divided into two different levels by brick buildings. Until 1975 A.D., the castle was an important government center. The fort includes a small fort inside the western side of it. Its towers include a number of cannons, as well as its entrance. The fort was last restored in 1992 AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Suwaiq
  • Governorate: North Al Batinah

Mussanah Fort

The Fort was built on flat land in the center of the Wilayat of Al Musanna a quiet coastal town in the Al Batinah South Governorate. Stones, mud bricks, and sarooj (water-resistant mortar) were used in the construction of the Fort.
Mussanah Fort consists of a central courtyard, a main building consisting of three floors, and two round towers equipped with gun platforms and firing ranges.
The construction of Al Musana Fort dates back to the era of Sayyid Saeed bin Sultan (1221-1275 AH / 1806-1856).
The Fort was last restored in 2006.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Musana’a
  • Governorate: South Al Batinah

Bait Almarah Castle

One of the important historical buildings in Oman, Bait Al-Marah Fort is also known as Yanqul Fort and located in the Wilayat of Yanqul in Al Dhahirah Governorate.
It is a large complex designed in a semi-rectangular shape, and contains a mosque and a group of houses within its wall. The Fort wall is supported by nine towers, and due to its strategic location and the durability of its architecture, the fort has been inhabited until recently.
 The Fort was built 400 years ago, when the Nabhani tribe reigned the area. The fort was built by Makhzoum bin Falah, a member of the Nabhani family, at the beginning of the seventeenth century AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Yanqul Wilayat
  • Governorate: Al Dhahirah

Iraqi Castle

Iraqi Castle is located in Wilayat of Ibri in the Al Dhahirah Governorate. It is a large rectangular fort, divided into two parts, an eastern Fort, and a western Fort, with a spacious yard in the middle and containing two entrances and four towers.
The first floor includes ten rooms, two rooms in the two round towers, and the roof of the four towers has openings for cannons.
It is likely that the Castle was built in the early nineteenth century AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Ibri Wilayat
  • Governorate: Al Dhahirah

Al-Munaikh Fort

This fort was built on a plateau, located in the middle of Alayai city of Dhank, in  Al Dhahirah Governorate. This old Fort was constructed by the Faialin tribe, who settled in the state of Dhank. 
The fort consists of two floors, with four Towers, the most famous of which is the dome tower, which was equipped with a cannon. It has a main gate and a well for drinking water and storage places for weapons and another for supplies.
Many Sheikhs of the Al-Naim tribe successively used this fort for residential purposes.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Dhank Wilayat
  • Governorate: Al Dhahirah

Al Mamour Castle

The Fort is located on a flat land in the midst of palm plantations in the village of Al Maamour, overlooking the palm plantations with large avenue in which events are held.  
The structure consists of two floors, an entrance and a tower, and two cannons. The structure is rectangular in shape and has a water well within. It was previously used for defensive and residential purposes. The Fort is constructed with clay, gravel, plaster, sarooj, and wood. 
The structure is well maintained over the years.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Ibri Wilayat
  • Governorate: Al Dhahirah

Al Wasil Castle

The fort is located on plain land in the center of the village and overlooks a group of date palm plantations. The Fort was built by the Al-Hajarin tribe and was mainly used to repel surprise attacks by the mercenaries coming from outside Oman and defend the Village. 
The fort consists of only one floor with many rooms and has three entrances. The Fort has five restored towers and a wall connecting them. There is an antique market with a number of shops. Like other Forts of the region, it is constructed with Mud, gravel, plaster, sarooj and wood. 

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Wasil, Wilayat of Bidiyah.
  • Governorate: North Al Sharqiyah

Husn Al-Khabeeb

The Bait Al-Khabeeb Fort is located in the Wilayat of Al-Mudhaibi, It is an almost square-shaped building, which includes two circular corner towers. There are also a number of defensive fortifications, rooms, and stores.
The Fort was constructed during the thirteenth century AH (17th Century AD)
The building of the fort was renovated during the time of Sultan Faisal bin Turki in the fourteenth century AH (18th Century AD).

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al Mudhaibi Wilayat
  • Governorate: North Al Sharqiyah

Al Rawdha Castle

Al-Rawdah Fort is located on top of a mountain hill, was built with the aim of defending the town and providing protection through marine surveillance. The Fort with a total area of 326 meters, with a length of 24 meters and a width of 14 meters, consists of reception rooms for guests, a storeroom, a women’s room, a kitchen, and a main hall that is accessed through a arched entrance that leads directly to a rectangular hall, the walls of which  are decorated with a number of traditional  decorations.
The Fort was last restored in 1989.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Rawdah in Samad Al-Shan, Wilayat of Al-Mudhaibi
  • Governorate: North Al Sharqiyah

Bait Al Yahmadi

A fortified mud-brick mansion house. Built possibly around 300 years ago by Hafez bin Saeed Al-Maskari, located in the suburbs of Ibra on the edge of the town’s plantations, the structure is well maintained. The falaj (irrigation channel) that leads under the entrance way like a mini-moat is one of the attractive features of this location. 
The house was restored in 1989 AD.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Wilayat of Ibra
  • Governorate: North Sharqiyah

Al Mintarib Castle

This fort was built on a flat land in the middle of the village of al-Mintreb. The Fort was built in the 13th century AD during the reign of Bani Nabhan. It seems that the Fort was moved from its original location in the center of the country (Al-Nakhil) to its current location in 815 AH / 1412 AD, The restoration work was undertaken continously over the years. With an area of 900 square meters, it has high fortified walls interspersed with small windows. In the past, this Fort was the center of religious power in the city.
 The last restoration was in 1982 AD

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Mintreb, Wilayat of Bidiyah
  • Governorate: North Al Sharqiyah

AAl-Hamuda Castle

It is called Al-Aija Castle or the Castle of Hamouda’s Sons. Built in the 17th century AD by Sheikh Rashid bin Salem Al Hamouda for defense purposes and to be a refuge during wars by providing protection for the population and property. This Fort was built on an area of 830 square meters. It consists of two floors. In the basement there are eight rooms that were used for various purposes, including for living, and the other as stores for supplies and weapons. There are four rooms on the upper floor with  two ladders leading to the upper floor and to the roof. In the Fort there are two doors on one axis, one of which is directed to the north and the other to the south. There are also four towers, the height of the north eastern tower is about 11 m. The fort is surrounded by a wall, the height of which ranges between 7-8 m. Traditional building materials such as stones, mud and wood were used in the construction of this fort.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am - 02:30 pm / 03:00 pm - 06:00 pm Friday: 09:00 am - 12 noon / 02:30 pm - 06:00 pm Saturday: 09:00 am – 01:00 pm / 2:30 pm - 06:00pm
  • Location : Al-Aijah, Wilayat of Sur
  • Governorate: South Al Sharqiyah

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