Nizwa (Arabic: نزوى) is the largest city in the Ad Dakhiliyah Region in Oman and was the capital of Oman proper. Nizwa is about 140 km (1.5 hours) from Muscat. The population is estimated at around 70,000 people including the two areas of Burkat Al Mooz and Al Jabel Al Akhdar.
Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in Oman and it was once a center of
trade, religion, education and art. Its Jama (grand mosque) was formerly
a center for Islamic learning. Nizwa acquired its importance because it has been an important meeting point at the base of the Western Hajar Mountains. Set amid a verdant spread of date palms, it is strategically located at the crossroads of routes linking the interior with Muscat and the lower reaches of Dhofar
thus serving as the link for a large part of the country. Today, Nizwa
is a diverse prosperous place with numerous agricultural, historical and
recreational aspects. Nizwa is a center for date growing and is the market place for the area.
Nizwa fort was built in the 1668 A.D by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'rubi.
It is Oman's most visited national monument. The fort was the
administrative seat of authority for the presiding Imams and Walis in
times of peace and conflict. The main bulk of the fort took about 12
years to complete and was built above an underground stream. The fort is
a reminder of the town's significance through turbulent periods in
Oman's long history. It was a formidable stronghold against raiding
forces that desired Nizwa's abundant natural wealth and its strategic
location at the crossroads of vital routes.
Thank you, Cresalde !
Sent on: August 5, 2013
Received on: September 5, 2013
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