Muscat: The 16th-century Al Mirani Fort in Muscat has been opened to visitors, following a soft inauguration on Wednesday.
The fort in old Muscat overlooks the Sea of Oman and was the first where cannons were installed in Oman.
Al Mirani Fort existed before the Portuguese invasion and was later rebuilt by the Portuguese in 1587.
It is also called the Al Gharbiya Fort as it commands a view of a high rocky hill at the end of the west wall.
Al Mirani Fort, built at the same time as nearby Al Jalali Fort, has a special place in history as it contributed to the fall of the Portuguese.
"This historic landmark that has stood tall for more than 400 years will be open to all visitors so that everyone will be able to enjoy the details of this magnificent architectural monument and its wonderful view of the city of Muscat, the Al Alam Palace, and the old port of Muscat," the operators said on social media.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) signed an agreement in 2023 with the Hajar Mountains Resorts and Hotels Company to manage and operate the Al Mirani Fort.
The ministry seeks to bolster the private sector, and small and medium enterprises by, enabling them to market craftsmen’s work and thereby enrich local tourism with value-added projects.
MHT ministry has been handing over management and maintenance of the nation’s historical forts and castles to the private sector.
TIMINGS
Sunday - Wednesday: 8 am - 11 pm
Thursday - Saturday: 8 am - 12 midnight
ENTRY FEE
Non Omanis/ Tourists - RO10 for adults and RO5 for kids
Omanis - RO3
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