Bahla Fort: Oman's UNESCO World Heritage fortress

Bahla Fort is one of the largest mud-brick forts in the world and Oman's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1987. It dominates the oasis town of Bahla, about 40 kilometres west of Nizwa.

History

Bahla prospered from the 12th to the 15th centuries under the Banu Nebhan tribe, who made it their capital. The fort and the long wall that once encircled the oasis show the power of that era. After years of restoration, the fort reopened to visitors.

What to see

• The fort's towers, courtyards and halls, built of mud brick on stone foundations.
• The old town and souq around the fort.
• The oasis walls, stretching for kilometres around the palm groves.
• Bahla pottery, a traditional craft still practised in local workshops.

Visiting

The fort is open daily except at certain times on Fridays; check current hours. Allow at least an hour.

Tips

Combine with Jabrin Castle, ten minutes away, and Nizwa Fort for a full day of history.

Staying near and owning a home

Most visitors explore Oman from a base in Muscat. If you are thinking of buying, R2LUX sells homes in the communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.