After visiting the capital, the next step is often to explore Nizwa, located 180 kilometres southwest of Muscat, at the foot of the Hajar Mountains. You may laugh at me, but on my first visit, and every time I have returned since, I have felt as though I were stepping into the setting of my favourite animated film… Aladdin! With its fort and architecture, Nizwa evokes that vision of the Arab world that has stayed with me since childhood.
As with most of the places featured on this blog, a little historical background is in order. Although Nizwa is now one of the country’s major cities, it has also served as its capital on several occasions throughout history. Often described as a capital under the Julanda rulers in the sixth and seventh centuries, it is associated with this ruling family, whose brothers Jayfar and Abd embraced Islam around 630 at the invitation of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, helping its spread throughout Oman.
Having become the capital of the Ibadi Imamate in 793, Nizwa gradually established itself as an important centre of power and religious learning. It was here that Imam Al-Salt bin Malik had his castle built during his reign, between 851 and 885. Renovated in 1625, it was later joined by the imposing circular fort we see today. Construction began in 1656, took twelve years and was completed in 1668 under Imam Sultan bin Saif Al-Ya‘rubi, the very ruler who had driven the Portuguese out of Muscat in 1650.
Standing 34 metres high and measuring 45 metres in diameter, the fort’s tower allowed its defenders to watch over the surrounding area and protect both the city and its trading routes. Today, visitors climb it to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view over Nizwa and its palm groves. Another way to discover this city with its rich past, which was named the Capital of Islamic Culture for the Arab region in 2015.
Beyond visiting the fort and castle, you will find the famous Nizwa Souq just below. Its stalls reveal silver jewellery, khanjars and handcrafted pottery amid the aromas of spices. Every Friday, early in the morning, it also hosts the livestock market, where farmers come to sell their goats and cattle.
In Nizwa, you can also stroll through Falaj Daris Park and discover one of the five traditional Omani irrigation systems inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Photo gallery
Discover the photographs from this visit.