- Address: Nizwa, Oman
- Height: 35 m
- Working hours: daily 09: 00-16: 00
In the VI century AD. the capital of the state of Oman was the city of Nizwa , which now functions as a popular tourist center. The main attractions of the city are numerous markets where you can buy cheap silver and gold jewelry by hand.
In the VI century AD. the capital of the state of Oman was the city of Nizwa , which now functions as a popular tourist center. The main attractions of the city are numerous markets where you can buy cheap silver and gold jewelry by hand. But most of the tourists come here to see one of the most visited historical monuments of the country - the main fortress of Nizwa.
History of the fortress Nizva
The fortification was built in 1650 during the reign of Imam Sultan bin Saif bin Malik, but its basic structure was laid as far back as the 12th century. The construction of the main part of the Nizwa fortress lasted 12 years. Then it was a formidable bulwark against the raids of the enemies who encroached on the wealth of the city and its strategic position. Thanks to a powerful fort, the fort could withstand long sieges. There was an underground passage through which continuous supplies of water, food and ammunition were maintained.
In those times the Nizwa fortress was used as an administrative authority, which was headed by imams and valises. Now it is a monument of history, which recalls the importance of the city in times that are not easy for Oman.
Architectural style and structure of the Nizwa fortress
The design of this fort completely reflects the style that was used in Oman during the Jarubi era. The basis of the Nizwa fortress is a drum tower with a diameter of 36 m, the height of which is 30 m. At the same distance the structure goes underground. During construction, mud, stones and rubble were used. The walls of the Nizwa fortress have a round, strong form, thanks to which they can withstand mortar fire. Passage to the premises is protected by doors thicker than 10 cm.
Throughout the diameter of the tower, holes were made for 24 mortar cannons. In former times, they provided a full coverage of 360 °, so the watchmen of the Nizwa fortress could never be taken unawares. Now there are only six guns left from the former weapons:
- 4 are installed on top of the main tower;
- 2 guard the entrance to the fort.
One of them engraved the name of Imam Sultan bin Saif bin Malik. The inner space of the Nizwa fortress consists of:
- long terraces;
- Sultan's rooms with high ceilings;
- confusing labyrinths;
- secret mines;
- wells;
- false doors and passages.
Many of these structures are architectural deception. In order to get to the top of the Nizwa fortress, you need to overcome a narrow winding staircase, hidden behind a wooden door with metal spikes. In the old days, those enemies who managed to get through this barrier were poured with boiling oil or water.
During the tour of the Nizwa fortress, you can visit the local museum . Here is exhibited a collection of ancient weapons, historical documents and household items. Monumentality of the fort, its structure and content allow tourists to appreciate the power of the Oman Empire in the Middle Ages.
How to get to the Nizva fortress?
The fortification is located in the north-eastern part of Oman about 112 km from the Gulf of Oman. The nearest city is Muscat , which is 164 km away from it. To get from the capital to the fortress Nizva is possible only by road transport. They are connected by roads Nos. 15 and 23. Following them, you can be at the fort after 1.5-2.5 hours.
On the same roads there are tourist buses ONTC. The cost of tickets is about $ 5, and the whole journey takes about 2 hours.