Nakhal Fort (قلعة نخل)

Nakhal Fort (قلعة نخل) is one of the most magnificent forts in Oman and one of the most popular ones to visit after Nizwa Fort and Jabreen Castle. The exact date in which this ancient fort was built is unknown, but many believe that it was built in pre-Islamic times, i.e. more than 1,500 years ago. The fort is located in Nakhal, a palm oasis about 120 km away from Muscat.

One of the most unique features of Nakhal Fort is that it does not follow any uniform shape. The shape of the fort instead follows the irregular outline of the massive boulder on which the fort is built. This boulder elevates the fort above ground and gives the fort its magnificence. The lower level of the fort has a mosque, a well, and a date storage room, while the upper level of the fort has the Wali residential quarters with a variety of rooms for the family of the Wali, seasonal reception halls for men and women, and designated rooms for the children of the Wali. The rooms of Nakhal Fort display a variety of traditional exhibits showcasing how life went on during the old times, one of the guest rooms also has a gorgeous ceiling featuring geometric designs and Arabic scriptures.