By Khalid Dhafar Al Balushi
The Sultanate of Oman is comprised of many picturesque places, but among the country’s many beautiful cities, Nizwa is a jewel that perfectly balances sustainable development with the preservation of culture and heritage.
Located in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, about 164 kilometres away from the capital, Muscat, Nizwa serves as both the administrative hub of the governorate and a beacon for cultural enthusiasts worldwide. Among three Omani cities, it has been honoured by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) with inclusion in its esteemed Global Network of Learning Cities.
This recognition, shared with Muscat and Sur, highlights the concerted efforts spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, particularly through the Oman National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. Their joint endeavour aims to showcase Omani cities on an international platform, leveraging their tourism and cultural allure to champion education for sustainable development within local communities. Moreover, it seeks to elevate Oman’s standing in global indices, including the Sustainable Development Goals.
A Learning City, as epitomised by Nizwa’s inclusion, harnesses its collective resources across all sectors to promote inclusive learning opportunities for all age groups, spanning from basic to higher education. It fosters a culture of learning within families and local communities, facilitates skill acquisition for employment, and harnesses modern educational tools to foster a culture of lifelong learning. Such initiatives not only enhance individual capacities but also foster social cohesion and drive economic and cultural advancement, thereby propelling societies towards the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals.
Nizwa is a destination for enthusiasts of engineering, art, and architecture as it boasts a rich heritage and formidable fortresses. Explorers can venture through its fortified walls, delving into its watchtower, well-preserved chambers, and labyrinthine corridors. Adorned with intricate carvings, the fortress walls stand as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of its builders.
The Nizwa Fort, with its imposing circular structure crafted from Omani stones and plaster (Al Sarooj), stands as a towering symbol of Oman’s architectural prowess. Rising 34 metres high with a diameter of 45 metres, its sturdy construction rests upon a stone-laden base, punctuated by cannon embrasures. Accessible via narrow passageways resembling the letter “H,” the castle boasts seven intricately designed doors, each guarded by defensive openings.
This architectural gem bears witness to centuries of cultural evolution. Erected in the mid-seventeenth century AD, it remains a focal point, drawing admiration from visitors worldwide. As a testament to its allure, the castle welcomed a staggering 100,000 visitors by the close of 2022.
In an interview with Professor Abdulaziz al Falih, a Saudi researcher who once studied in the Sultanate of Oman, he reminisced about his school trip to Nizwa Fort with his classmates. He highlighted Nizwa’s significance as the former capital of Omani rule during the early Islamic eras, noting its imposing castle that stands as a testament to the Ya’ariba’s expulsion of the Portuguese from Oman. This 24-metre-high fortress with a 39-metre diameter foundation tower symbolises Omani strength from that period.
Al Falih revisits fond memories of the ancient castle, marvelling at its sturdy fortifications, strategic passageways, and defensive trenches. Once the stronghold of the ruling Imam, it provided refuge and resilience against adversaries for months, thanks to its ample water wells and well-stocked warehouses. He details the castle’s features, including educational facilities for children and defensive structures for wartime contingencies, alongside functional wells for water supply.
Moreover, Al Falih highlights the allure of Nizwa’s historic market, a bustling hub of activity in bygone times. His book, “When I Was a Student in Oman,” published in 2021, encapsulates his experiences in the Sultanate of Oman, particularly in Nizwa.
While many cultures have embraced harmony across different realms of existence, Nizwa stands out for its adeptness in maintaining a balance between the present and the past. Today, a visit to its massive complex offers different entertainment. Ingenious Omani youth have seamlessly blended the ancient ambience with contemporary flair, epitomised by Anat Cafe, nestled upon a 1,200-year-old archaeological wall within the market’s heart. Converting homes and archaeological sites into coffee havens is a delightful effort.
Inevitably, any journey to the Sultanate of Oman would be incomplete without a pilgrimage to Nizwa, where the essence of harmony between nature, architecture, authentic Omani flavours, and cultural immersion converges. This oasis of authenticity seamlessly marries breathtaking landscapes with a storied history. Like a grand museum ensconced amid majestic mountains, Nizwa enchants visitors with its array of castles, fortresses, and panoramic vistas. Much like water sustains life, tourism in Nizwa pulsates as a vital artery within Oman’s tourism sector.
Photos by Stefaan du Pont
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