Less than 1 km from the centre of the Wilayat of Ibri on the slopes of Al Raml Mountain lies the sprawling ruins of Haret Al Raml. Well-known British explorer James Raymond visited the area in 1836 while touring the interior of the Sultanate of Oman
The area is littered with dilapidated mud houses in between narrow lanes. These houses are fine examples of ancient Omani architecture with balconies, windows, and antique wooden doors. The entrances are crowned with arches inspired by Arab and Islamic architecture. Ceilings built with palm trunks are decorated in bright colors.
Harat Al Raml is considered a cultural and tourist landmark that is a snapshot of life in ancient Oman and an amazing testament to Omani civilization’s clever use of natural materials in construction. In many cases, the architectural designs in this village are similar to those in Wilayat Al Hamra (Al Dakhiliyah governorate), where the intricately carved ceilings can be seen.
Old timers say this Harat was a winter getaway for the Wilayat of Ibri as its mud houses provided the much needed warmth during the harsh weather. It is close to the Al Mafjour falaj, which supplied the fresh water.
This quarter includes three mosques: Sidrat Al Raml Mosque, Al Shariah Mosque, and Al Hara Mosque. At the top of the mountain there are two towers, and there is a large cave that reaches the other side of the old neighborhood. It also has an ancient Sidra that is more than 400 years old, called (Sidrat Al Raml), where caravans and nomads used for stop over and rest.
This neighborhood's oldest school was called the Al Islah where the Holy Qur’an used to be taught.
The majority of the residents here are farmers who work in fields and raise livestock. Residents request the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to expedite the restoration of the houses of the neighborhood and develop it as a tourist destination. They also want to allow the private sector to invest in this historical site in accordance with the regulations of the Sultanate of Oman.
“There is no doubt that the restoration of these houses is tantamount to restoring something of the Omani heritage, but we have not seen any move by the competent authorities since the date of the issuance of the Royal Decree. With the passage of days this neglect may increase the cost of restoring this historical site,” an heritage expert said.
Many citizens of the wilayat of Ibri are still hoping for the competent authorities to speed up the restoration. They also seek appointment of tourist guides, establishment of a tourist office, and public toilets in line with the heritage of this ancient quarter.
“A tourist plan should be developed with its focus on restored homes as heritage inns, and cafes and restaurants that serve delicious Omani food,” they said.
TEXT& PHOTOS BY YAHYA AL SALMANI
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