Bahla Fort
Oman's forts and castles, historically significant as lookouts or defensive positions are outstanding evidence of a seafaring and trading culture and civilization dating back thousands of years. With over 500 forts, castles and towers, Oman's forts were often administrative and judicial centres.
Between the 12th and 15th centuries the dominant Banu Nebhan tribe built the Bahla Fort, the oldest fort in Oman and one of four built in the foothills of the Djebel Akhdar highlands 40 kms north west of modern-day Nizwa. The fort itself is has adobe walls and towers rising 165 feet on top of a sandstone base. Although the fort is a significant example of this style of fortification, large sections of the outer walls have weathered, requiring present-day protection. |
The immense fort has 7 miles of walls with internal staircases which were originally patrolled day and night to protect the oasis at Bahla. |
The town of Bahla, historically known for its genies and alchemy, is today famous throughout the Sultanate and beyond for it's pottery, the souk in the town square, its mosques and early Islamic influences and, water springs (Falajs).
Icon Holidays can arrange your visit to Bahla and the Bahla Fort, with our range of superb hotels to choose from, private transfers and personal recommendations to help you enjoy this significant site.
