The Nizwa Fort is a well known attraction in Oman. Its ancient architectural style attracts tourists wanting to experience the rich history of the Sultanate. It is also one of the finest examples of fort building, engineering and architecture of the ancient Middle East.
It is indeed a monument of the Sultanate’s glorious history. Located amongst the thick greenery afforded by the date palm trees, this fort had literally stood the test of time; it dates back to the 17th century when it was constructed through the times when the city was faced with outside intervention.
The Nizwa Fort is a national monument and its history can be traced back to the 12th century when the underlying structure used for the castle was constructed. It was built on this structure in the 1650s and it was used as the administrative seat for the Walis and Imams for centuries. The structure sits on an underground stream and the main part of the castle had taken 12 long years to be built.
Oman through history has boasted significant wealth and therefore has also experienced a fair bit of foreign raids and the Nizwa has afforded the resistance needed to keep these advances at bay. The architecture also features military fortification especially with facilities for mortar-based warfare. The towers that rise up to 30 metres with foundations extending another 30 metres show that the fort was designed with strength in mind.
Visitor can view the deceptively beautiful design of the castle which has actually been built to protect the country as well to protect itself. The turrets, the towers, the false doors, secret shafts, well, doors with metal spikes and shafts for pouring hot oil through, have all been placed strategically to ensure that no enemy survived the climb up to the towers.
Visitors to Oman have plenty to explore and most prefer to be based in Muscat. Accommodation options, such as a Muscat hotel, can be found throughout the city. All options provide Arabic opulence combined with modern amenities and facilities to ensure a memorable stay. If you are searching for a well placed Oman Muscat hotel with some of the best facilities and conveniences try Millennium Resort Mussanah.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
