There are a myriad of historical places of interest and forts scattered around Oman. Each amazing to see in their own right, one stands out because of its size and location. This one has been restored to showcase the culture, history and traditions of the country. Beautiful Nizwa Fort, Castle & Gardens is a must see on your next visit to Oman.
Brief History & Entrance
Oman’s most visited site is Nizwa Fort and it’s not hard to see why. Built in the 1650’s it consists of a massive drum shaped tower. The castle which is right beside the fort, was the largest structure in the ancient city, once the nations capital, and was constructed at a much earlier date.
Both of these and the gardens can be accessed through the main doors for a fee of 5 OMR or $18 CAD). Inside visitors will find a museum, interactive rooms showcasing Omani cultural heritage displays, café’s, toilets and even live animals and exhibitions.
Nizwa Fort
Constructed on 12th century foundations, this massive drum shaped tower and its accompanying small rooms makes up the Nizwa Fort. The tower measures 30 metres high and has a diameter of 36 metres. Its foundations go into the ground 30 metres deep!
One single twisting and narrow staircase leads to the top. A mastery of deception, pitfalls awaited those trying to invade. All along the way up, the enemy was met by huge wooden doors full of spikes, open pits leading down into the abyss, and ‘murder holes’. These were small open slits from above, that molten oil, water and date syrup was poured into and onto the invader.
At the top, there are 24 openings where cannons were placed to provide complete protection to anyone encroaching the fort. And build upon an underground stream, the fort could sustain siege for long periods of time.
Standing at the top of this scalloped drum, a truly wondrous sight unfolds before your eyes. The raw and rugged Hajar Mountains and ancient city lay scattered in front of you. This is indeed, the best place for views anywhere in the city.
Nizwa Castle
Wander now from the fort into the next complex, that of the vast and multi-roomed castle. Here find the residences including those of the Imam, kitchens, coffee houses, date stores and everything else required to run and administrate the ancient city. Explore the walls and structure first, the beauty is overwhelming. Climb all of the stairs and ladders onto the rooftops for a bird’s eye view of the castle.
Now head down and inside the main part of the structure. Here find rooms dedicated to showcasing traditional Omani culture and heritage. In one room I was happily plied with dates, Omani halwa (a special dessert) and coffee. In another room, these beautiful women taught me how to wear the hijab and even gave it to me as a parting gift, along with taking my photo and giving me a copy of that too!
Now head down to the central courtyard. There find dancers and musicians, a potter, a man making Omani coffee over coals, another chance to taste this delicious drink. Behind him is an old gent, a weaver of reeds creating all sorts of pretty things.
Nizwa Gardens
Once you have finished the castle and all it entails, don’t miss going through the single door labeled Nizwa Garden. Walk into a palm filled space that shows what the outdoor portions of the castle would have looked like. See the animal pens at the back, full of goats used for milk and meat. In pens at one side are the beautiful Arabian deer and oryx, even bunnies too!
Learn about the irrigation methods, take a respite in the shade huts, view a reproduction catapult and even take a breezy swing. A pure delight after hours on your feet.
If there is one place I highly encourage visitors to see and learn about Omani history, it is here at Nizwa. To truly appreciate the sheer size and beauty of the forts that once scattered the land, this one restored in 1998 is your gem. The value for money, educational experience and meeting Omani people sets this place apart from any other.
