Commonly acclaimed as the birthplace of the legend of the seven seas; Sinbad, the area of Sohar in the Sultanate of Oman has been a city wrapped in mystery, fiction and trade. From its mystifying past, the area has flourished into one of the most developed cities of the country. To narrate these glorious episodes of its times gone by a museum is of great value.
The Sohar Fort Museum which is administered by the Ministry of Heritage and Culture was inaugurated in the year 1993 to capture, present and preserve the occurrences of the 18th century in Oman. It occupies one of the towers of the fort and is not very large. Having spearheaded the seafaring activities and being a pioneer in the establishment of trade links throughout the country, the importance of the city from then till now has remained unscathed.
The museum is a large white building originally built in the 14th century and was modified during the Portuguese reign to look very much like a garrison. It overlooks the sea and the top most floor of the structure provides picturesque views running up to many kilometres all around. The tiny crevice like windows of the building give its solid Middle Eastern architecture an eerie appearance, but under the bright sunlight with a few palms bobbing their tops, there is a peculiar charm to the building as well.
The artefacts on display that confirm copper trade and Sohar’s ties with the Chinese city of Canton are a priceless confirmation of the trade activities of the past. In addition there are medieval weaponry and seafaring equipment showcased to offer an insight in to the historical trading practices and livelihood of Oman’s ancestors. The first floor of the fort contains the tomb of one of Oman’s rulers, Sayyid Thuwani bin Said bin Sultan al – Busaid.
Being a busy commercial district with an equally well sought after harbour in the vicinity; Oman hotels are always abuzz with activity. The throngs of people that pour into an Oman hotel are almost never ending as has been the experience at Al Wadi Hotel Sohar, one of the prominent properties of the area.
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.