Joanna James
Oman is a country with a long and sometimes turbulent history which has resulted in many majestic forts that are breathtaking in their grandeur.
With a history that dates back to the sixteenth century, Jibrin Fort is a fortress and palace located in the country's most historic region. It was constructed by Bala'rab bin Sultan bin Seif Al Ya'arubi and is one of the finest examples of ancient Omani architecture. A massive structure that consists of 3 stories, it stands at a height of forty three meters and comes complete with a mosque within the premises. Jibrin Frt has a whopping fifty five chambers and runs for a length of seventy two meters on the eastern side. This castle also houses the tomb of Imam Bala'rab bin Sultan bin Seif Al Ya'arubi. Once on the brink of self destructing due to neglect, the fort has now been restored to its former glory so rest assured, you can view Jibrin Fort in its best light.
One of the most well known fortresses in Oman, Nizwa Fort is quite an iconic landmark. Built by Sultan bin Seif bin Malik Al Ya'arubi, it holds a special place in history due to the fort's magnificent architecture. The entire structure took over a decade to build (twelve years to be exact) and it is said that the Sultan spent every penny he got from a particular conquest. Set in an unorthodox location, the highlight of Nizwa Fort is its forty meters high round tower. The fort might be far from most hotels such as Alila Jabal Akhdar Oman, but being a famous location, any resort in Oman will help you get there; either through a tour or by pointing out the way.
Rustaq Fort was built in the sixth century, making it one of the oldest forts in the country. Built during the pre-Islamic era of Oman, a visit to this fort is compulsory for history buffs. The hidden pathways, vertical staircases, cannons and the astonishingly large ramparts are sure to make you giddy with excitement. The entire structure is almost completely built using stone, mud, brick and mortar. The fort also houses a mosque, called the Bayadha Mosque and is the resting place of Sultan bin Seif. It has also undergone a massive restoration process leaving it in its full grandeur.
What sets the Bahla Fort apart from the others is the fact that it was built in a triangular shape. Again built during the pre-Islamic era in the country, it was built by the Banu Nebhan tribe who considered Bahla the capital. The fort has many battlements which helps make Bahla a completely walled city. An oasis in the desert, the town makes use of a complex set of wells and irrigation systems to supply water. The engineering used for the water systems far exceeds the times and continues to impress the historians of today. The Bahla Fort has been certified a UNESCO Heritage Site as a testament to its beauty and importance to Oman's history.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
