The walls of Oman’s ancient forts keep a record of the secrets of the past. While many of these walls were not meant to live forever, those that survive records the identy of Oman.
Bait Bahr is one of the ancient heritage sites in the Wilayat of Al Buraimi, located in the center of the Wilayat in Sa`ra. It was named after a person called “Bahar.”
The age of the construction of the fort is estimated to be approximately 250 years. This archaeological landmark consists of three floors and was the headquarters of the sheikh of the region. It contains several rooms used for various purposes, in addition to the prison, which is locally called “Al Tamoura.”
Between the wall that surrounds the fort from the northern side and the main fort building, there is a palm groves that are watered by the falaj, and the area currently cultivated has shrunk due to the weak flow of the falaj. As for the eastern side of the fort, small houses were built of cement and bricks only half a meter from the wall of the fortress, which made this part besieged by cement walls.
One of the secrets of the fort is a mysterious pathway that leads to somewhere not yet discovered due to the deterioration of the building.
At present, the “ Bait Bahar” is among the ancient archaeological sites and is the third archaeological landmark in the Wilayat Center. The Department of Heritage and Tourism in Al Buraimi was assigned to submit a detailed report and study the possibilities of restoration. The restoration of the fort will lead to many historical discoveries that will enrich the Omani touristic scene.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
