Bahla Fort
قلعة بهلاء
Oman's only fort listed as a World Heritage Site, a massive mud-brick fortress from the 13th to 14th centuries, with a 12-kilometer ancient city wall encircling the oasis.
Bahla lies about 35 kilometers west of Nizwa. It was a stronghold of the Nabhani dynasty from the 13th to 15th centuries. The Bahla Fort (قلعة بهلاء) is built on a stone foundation with massive mud-brick walls and towers, on a grand scale. It was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1987. It had earlier been placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger after parts collapsed, and it reopened in 2012 after more than a decade of restoration. Visitors can freely explore its courtyards, towers, mosque and maze-like rooms. From high points, you can see the oasis and the roughly 12-kilometer ancient city wall stretching across it. Bahla is also known for traditional pottery, and the old market below the fort sells clay pots. Entry costs a few rials. It can be combined with Jabrin Castle in a half-day tour.
Opening hours
Sat–Thu 09:00–16:00; Fri 08:00–11:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Jabrin Castle
- Al Hoota Cave
- Al Hamra Old Village & Bait al Safah
- Misfat al Abriyeen
- Tanuf Ruins
- Nizwa Fort
- Nizwa Souq & Friday Goat Market
- Falaj Daris