Get Better Acquainted with Nizwa, the Historical City of Oman

Is Nizwa Worth Visiting?

Nizwa used to be the capital of Oman. The city, situated in Ad Dakhiliyah ‍Governorate, is one of the old and historical cities of Oman. It is also known as a commercial, religious and art center. Being an important communication center, the city is known as one of the main cities of the country.

The population of the city is around 72000 people and includes two main areas, Birkat Al Mouz and Al-Jabel Al-Akhdar. In 1970, the city was linked to Muscat, which is 156 Km away, through a highway. It is also considered as one of the richest and affluent regions of the country.

In spite of modern educational and residential facilities, the city has retained its historical and traditional texture. It is interesting to know that this city is the sister city of Yazd. Because both of them include a historical texture and have similarities in spreading Islam. 

Why Is the City Named as Nizwa?

In general, there is no consensus why Nizwa was named so. Some believe that the name is derived from the Arabic verb "Enzewa", literally means isolation. Others suggest that the name of this city was actually the name of an old spring.

Natural Characteristics and Geographical Location of Nizwa

Nizwa lies on the western slope of Al Hajar Mountains and is limited by mountains from all sides. Nevertheless, it features hot and dry summers. The best time to visit this city is from November to March.  Because in this period of time the temperature reaches 12 ^◦C in maximum. But if you travel on the hot days of the year the temperature may reach 45 ^◦C.

The city enjoys stunningly beautiful mountainous landscapes as well as many gardens and palms groves. As a result, many tourists devote part of their visits on mountain climbing and hiking through palm groves.

What are the Best Places to Visit Nizwa?

Nizwa Fort, the Best Historical Attraction of the City

Nizwa Castle is the most visited national monument of Oman. The castle was built in 1668 by order of Sultan Bin Seif in 12 years. It is 30 meters high and has two cannons at the entrance of the castle and four cannons at the top of the tower. Most importantly, this fort was the administrative seat of the rulers and governors in times of peace and conflict.

The castle includes vast underground warehouses formed due to the foundations going down to a height of 30 meters into the ground. It was also a good place to store food and ammunition. The location of the fort next to the river enabled the inhabitants to provide their food and water in siege.

Nizwa Traditional Market (Souq)

As mentioned, the city is rich in handicrafts and agricultural products. Therefore, all kinds of products are marketed on the traditional market of this city. Among the products, one can mention meat, fruit, vegetables, traditional clothing, gold and silver jewelry.

The city has a prominent place in designing and marketing silver jewelry. In addition, the locals are professional in producing a kind of dagger with a unique style. The other handicrafts sold on the traditional market are copper dishes, swords and leathery objects.

Falaj Daris, the Most Important Irrigation System in Oman

There are many deep long water channels in Oman, which are registered in UNESCO World Heritage Site. The water channels are known as Falaj, literally means “split into parts”. In fact, Falaj is an ancient irrigation system.

The water channels, having remained in Ad Dakhiliyah, Ash Sharqiyah and Batinah ‍Governorate, date back to 500 years ago. The irrigation system is the worthful heritage of Oman intertwined with its culture and history. It was also the main source of life in the city.

Falaj Daris is among the best-known attractions of Nizwa. Above all, Falaj Daris flows through vast agricultural fields and palm groves and irrigate them.

Bahla Fort, a World Heritage Site

Baha Fort, listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies near Nizwa. This historical fort, constructed from 12^th to 15^th Century, is surrounded by a 12-km fortified walls.

The main inhabitants of the castle were Banu Nebhan Tribe, who had the trade of frankincense under their control. They also had commercial exchanges with Iran and Mesopotamia. The castle is located on top of a hill, between the valley and mountain.

The city of Bahla has still retained its traditional texture. It is known for its potteries still produced traditionally so that the brick kilns have still preserved their traditional shape.

Jabreen Castle

Jabreen Castle, built in 1670, has had different utilizations during the history. Once, it was as a beautiful palace for the ruler and his family. It was also utilized as a shelter in the war. In addition, it was considered as an educational center; that is why there are study rooms in the fort.

Jabrin Fort includes two sections. The first section is two-story and spans an area of 16 m². The second section consists of 3 stories and spans an area of 22 m². The castle rooms also stand out in the entire castle.

Jabrin Fort consists of two beautiful rooms, one of which is named “moon and sun”. This room, decorated with Islamic motifs, hosted the important meetings of Imam (ruler). The other one is the Imam Protection Room, designed in a way that allowed the guards to hide themselves. It was also where Imam arranged important meetings with unknown people.

Climbing Jebel Akhdar Mountain

Among the important attractions of Nizwa, one can mention the Jebel Akhdar Mountain, literally means green mountain. The mountain, lying around the city, is fascinating for climbing. With a height of 2980 meter, the mountain offers you an eye-catching view to the city.

Jebel Akhdar Mountain, located in the Al Hajar Ranges, is about a 45-minute drive from the city. This mostly limestone mountain is one of the highest points in Oman. Its scope almost has a dry climate, but the rainfall in the height is about 300 mm annually. So, there are enough moisture for the growth of plants in the heights.

Different agricultural products are farmed in Jebel Akhdar Mountain such as pomegranate, apricot, walnut and black grapes. It is also an important center of rose water distillation.

Travelling to Nizwa, the Historical City of Oman

On your trip to Oman make sure to visit the city, which has a rich history as the old capital of Oman. You will also get familiar with the original art and architecture of Oman by visiting the monuments.

Oman is a country with beautiful cities . You can take the opportunity to visit both modern and historical buildings, know more about Islamic-modern architectural styles and enjoy the life-giving nature.

1001 Nights Tours, tries to include this city in various tour styles. Therefore, we recommend you studying the itinerary to compare the tours more specifically. Click here to know more about the details of operating such tours. You can also click here to enrich your knowledge about the world heritages of Oman.