The Wilayat of Bahla in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate is one of the ancient Omani governorates dating back to ancient times, and its archaeological sites are represented by Bahla Castle, its great wall, its old market, Salut Fort, Jibreen Fort, and other archaeological monuments that stand as witness to the archaeological treasures that this governorate abounds with.
In addition to the historic Bahla Castle, which is one of the oldest Omani castles and its connection to many ancient civilisations, Unesco has included it on the World Heritage List since 1987 to include the Bahla Oasis with its castle, market, and surrounding archaeological areas, comes the importance of the ancient neighbourhoods that are located in the centre and suburbs of this governorate.
Among these neighbourhoods (Harat) are Al-Aqar, Al-Hawiyah, Al-Ghuzaili, Al-Ghafat, and Al-Jannah districts. There are many initiatives undertaken by the citizens of this governorate. These initiatives paved way for investing in these ancient lanes in a way that develops eco-tourism in the Sultanate of Oman.
These sites are realistic examples that tell about the advantages of ancient Omani lanes. These neighbourhoods are characterised by a unique style and architecture. The entrances and exits of these neighbourhoods are decorated with engraved arches, and each neighbourhood includes basic facilities such as Holy Quran schools, mosques, and meeting halls called (Al Sabla). There are also old markets near each neighborhood built in the form of ancient architectural style.
The importance of investing in these sites comes to enhance the level of tourism in this ancient state. These old houses have been invested in by restoring them and turning them into heritage inns, museums and antique cafes, but there are old residential neighbourhoods that have not been restored and may in the future be one of the important tourist attractions.
The area surrounding Bahla Fort is considered a vital and important area as it represents harmony and conformity with the designs of the ancient castle. Due to the historical status of Bahla Castle in the world, the castle is witnessing great demand by tourists coming to visit it from inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman, and many tourists stop to admire the neighbouring lanes to discover the aesthetics of the wonderful designs and its distinguished architecture.
The old Omani neighbourhoods constitute an ideal privacy for the citizen’s connection to his land and his deep-rooted culture, with a unique historical depth. The Sultanate of Oman is full of many old neighbourhoods that tell within their walls the stories of the struggle of the people of these neighbourhoods.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism seeks to preserve the old neighbourhoods, as it makes continuous efforts represented by inventorying and documenting the old neighborhoods and preparing a special register for them, including the historical, cultural, and social importance and the architectural condition of the neighbourhoods. In addition to developing a commercial operational plan for the old lanes.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has so far launched 16 documentary studies of historical neighbourhoods, which contain a management plan for the heritage and tourism sector by evaluating the infrastructure of the neighbourhoods such as services, agriculture, and irrigation. It also includes construction risks, the state of preservation and preservation, and a plan for the rehabilitation, development, and operation of the neighbourhoods. The ministry has so far conducted an inventory and documentation. Around 320 lanes in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, including 50 historic lanes are in good structural condition.
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