The Wilayat of Nizwa is located in the heart of the Dakhiliyah region in the Sultanate of Oman in an area called “Al-Jawf” which is 170 km west of the current capital city Muscat. Nizwa was famous in the ancient history of Oman and was the capital city during successive periods of the first unified kingdoms of Oman in the 7th and 8th centuries. The city of Nizwa was known as the cradle of Islam, due to its historical and architectural monuments that still bear witness to the cultural and civilizational City of Nizwa depth of this ancient city. Nizwa acquired great historical importance by being in a strategic location at the base of the western part of the Hajar mountain. The mountain has indeed influenced greatly the destiny of the whole country. It was a serving as a bridge between outside influences coming from the sea, and treasures from the land. Often referred to as “the pearl of Islam”, Nizwa hosts two of the oldest mosques in the country. The city has also been the scene for ancient communities of philosophers, intellectuals, and religious leaders of Oman.
The top of the tower offers a magnificent panorama view of the dome of the mosque, the green oasis, and the Jebel Akhdar. Nevertheless, the city is best known for its remarkable ochre fort. Built in 1668 AD by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya’rubi, the fort displays a complex architecture that stood strong against the outside invaders who coveted the city’s natural and abundant wealth. It remains today, one of the most precious architectural treasures of the country.
