Oman is a country of heritage renowned for its fascinating old villages that offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural practices and traditional way of life.
Each village narrates a unique story—some restored to former glory, others standing as evocative ruins. The villages boast ancient mosques, forts, and scholarly associations, preserving Oman's architectural and intellectual heritage. Despite varied states of preservation, all offer an immersive experience of Omani hospitality and warmth, creating an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking a glimpse into the country's vibrant past.
If you're travelling to Oman for a holiday and would like to learn more about how the ancient people of Oman lived, here are five villages you have to check out to give you an amazing insight into tradition and culture.
Harat al Bilad
Harat Al Bilad, situated in Oman's Wilayat of Manah, stands as a vast ancient archaeological site boasting 376 houses and approximately 250 wells dating back nine centuries. Founded by Sheikh Nejad bin Ibrahim in 470 Hijri, it was a center for scholarly pursuits, housing the Al Yamania Quarter and serving as a hub for intellectual activities.
The neighborhood, known by various names like "Manah Fortress" and "Fortress of bin Nejad," witnessed an active scientific movement, with books and Fiqh encyclopedias being transcribed there. Surrounded by a defensive wall, the area had several gates, including the Morning Gate near the wilayat's market.
Four ancient mosques—Al Ali, Al Ain, Al Shara, and Al Rahba—stand along its central lane, with their Mihrabs dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. To preserve this cultural treasure, the Ministry of Heritage and Culture initiated a restoration project in 2008, completed by 2016.
Efforts continue to open these sites for economic use, managed by private companies and SMEs, while adhering to environmental and social norms.
Harat al Aqar
The Wilayat of Bahla in Oman, renowned for its historical and tourist sites, boasts the captivating Al Aqar Neighborhood—a jewel showcasing traditional Omani architecture called "Al Harat." Situated within the Bahla Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, Al Aqar is ensconced by Bahla's defensive wall and linked to urban centers, yet retains its distinct identity.
Researcher Zakaria al-Humaimi unveiled Al Aqar's ancient past, revealing pre-Islamic remnants dating back nearly 3000 BC, including 177 mud brick structures, some incorporating modern materials while preserving original designs. Positioned near the Bahla Mosque and Bahla Historic Castle, the neighborhood enjoys protection and panoramic views from an elevated hill.
Al Aqar was more than a residential hub; it housed scholarly manuscripts and welcomed intellectuals like Sheikh Al Faqih Omar bin Said bin Abdullah Al Maad al-Bahlawi Abu Hafs, who curated the renowned Al Maad Library. Recognizing its cultural and architectural significance, a study by the University of Nottingham Trent and Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Culture in 2012 emphasized its importance as a World Heritage site, assessing conservation strategies and documenting its uniqueness amidst Bahla Oasis's tourism appeal.
Al Aqar Neighborhood embodies more than historic edifices—it symbolizes resilience, preserving Omani architectural heritage while inviting the world to glimpse its storied past within the embrace of Bahla's timeless allure.
Harat al Yemen
The ancient district of Harat Al Yemen within Izki stands as a testament to bygone eras, an enclave of abandoned buildings retaining the essence of a forgotten time. Unlike its restored counterpart, Harat Al Bilad in Manah, Harat Al Yemen captivates visitors with its raw, unadorned charm.
Adjacent to the dilapidated Izki Castle, a casualty of the Jabal Akhdar War's devastation in 1959, Harat Al Yemen's strategic position near Wadi Halfain's bend hints at its primordial role as the settlement's genesis. Its proximity to freshwater suggests its pivotal significance in Izki's initial expansion, neighboring the still-inhabited older section, Harat Al Nizar, denoted by signposts off the highway.
Traversing this historic district demands vigilance due to scattered debris and crumbling structures, which pose potential hazards, especially if the roofs are unstable. Visitors, especially those accompanied by children, must exercise extreme caution.
Amidst the weathered structures lies a treasure trove of history, preserving the authenticity of an era untouched by modern construction techniques.
Harat al Shurafa
In Buraimi governorate, the revival of Harat al Shurafa restored this ancient settlement to its former glory, and is now a great place that showcases heritage and helps promote tourism. Supervisor Talib Ahmed al Jabri emphasized its connection to the Falaj al Sarrani project, envisioning Buraimi as a standout tourist destination.
The neighborhood offers a historic journey with ancient structures showcasing unique architecture, utilizing stones from nearby mountains for its timeless ceilings. Homes in Harat al Shurafa symbolize communal unity with interconnected designs and restored traditional mud entrances.
Surrounded by lush orchards, these sites hold potential as popular tourist spots. Beyond its buildings, the Al Shurafa mosque, overseen by Suleiman bin Ali al Azzani, stands as a historical communal center, featuring dual Mihrabs for varying weather conditions.
These restoration initiatives reflect Oman's commitment to preserving its cultural legacy. Throughout the sultanate, similar projects have successfully revitalized old neighborhoods, blending the past seamlessly with the present to create vibrant and historically rich tourist accommodations, bridging heritage and modernity.
Harat al Siybani
Upon passing through a grand arch door, visitors are greeted by a signboard narrating the rich history of Harat al Siybani in Birkat al Mouz. This historical settlement, reconstructed in the 17th century, boasts 50 deserted houses, intertwining narrow pathways, staircases, and three entrances intricately connected by the falaj irrigation channel. Inhabitants thrived here until the early 21st century, leaving behind an eloquent story of this serene and enchanting place.
Located within the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, a mere 90-minute drive from Muscat, Birkat Al Mouz stands as a small oasis town, nestled close to Nizwa city. It holds significance as the primary settlement regulating entry to the Jabal Al Akhdhar mountains, a gateway for anyone venturing towards the Green Mountain.
The oasis of Birkat al Mouz comprises three ancient settlements: Harat al Siybani, Harat al Wadi, and Harat al Makasir. The allure of historic locales and remnants captivates me; hence, upon glimpsing images of this ancient settlement on social media, the irresistible urge to explore Harat al-Siybani emerged.
Adding to its charm, 'Bait Al Sabah', a new cafe, now graces the entrance of this age-old settlement. This café breathes life into renovated buildings within the historical site.
Traversing the ruins perched upon the hillside demands caution, as narrow pathways and steep steps are strewn with loose rocks and debris. The interiors of the abandoned houses hold surprises; floors are perilously weakened, potentially giving way underfoot.
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