Imti as an art hub is finally taking shape

Exciting developments are unfolding in the village of Imti, located approximately an hour's drive from Muscat. This small village, which has undergone significant restoration over the past decade, is renowned for its picturesque falaj. It welcomes visitors at the entrance, where locals often gather to enjoy the cool waters, especially during the summer.

Imti is a village rich in character, nestled against a mountain on one side, providing natural protection from strong winds, while on the other side, lush gardens of date palms and seasonal produce flourish on the outskirts, where the more modern part of the village has evolved.

Efforts are now underway to revitalize this hidden gem and attract more visitors. A stroll through its winding alleys reveals a dramatic transformation over the last ten years. Once crumbling structures have been strengthened, with old timbers replaced, and stone foundations reinforced and improved. Visitors can now climb to the rooftops of some homes, offering a unique perspective from the summit of the nearby mountain, showcasing the village's grandeur.

Following the pandemic, a new café has emerged at the village entrance, featuring outdoor seating ideal for winter months. This café has quickly become a popular spot, drawing hundreds of tourists and locals from surrounding towns and cities.

One of the most striking changes in Imti is the proliferation of artworks adorning walls, fences, and even lamp posts. Maryam al Zadjali, the former chairman of the Omani Society of Fine Arts (OSFA), has been a driving force behind this infusion of colour. As a pioneer of a unique restoration project in Imti and its 200-year-old settlement, her efforts have been supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage. She has collaborated with various artists, hosting exhibitions in the village, including one focused on miniature artworks that received widespread acclaim from Omani artists and art enthusiasts.

Maryam's influence, along with that of her supporters, is evident throughout the restored ruins. The artworks, depicting cultural objects with vibrant colours, tell tales of bygone eras. Particularly notable are wood and rocks painted with elements of traditional Omani women's clothing—colourful, ornate, and reflective of the village's rich heritage. The village entrance itself features a large mural celebrating traditional life, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia, despite the fading paint. Even the smallest details, such as the art on lamp posts, make the village more appealing to visitors.

Beyond the art, local vendors now sell traditional trinkets and seasonal produce harvested from nearby farms. A small shop, housed in what was once a majlis, offers a variety of dates, oils, and frankincense. Nearby, after a short climb to the second floor of a house, a restored shuwa pit, traditionally used during festivals and holidays, has become a focal point for tourists. Earthen pottery hanging from the few remaining trees adds a touch of authenticity to this beautifully preserved village.

A Vision Taking Shape

Imti has witnessed numerous transformations throughout its long history. Walking along its dusty paths and through its restored structures offers a fascinating journey back in time. The old houses, with their intricately carved lintels and painted wooden doors, reveal a wealth of historical details. Beautifully arched windows invite light into rooms, highlighting niches blackened with soot from ancient lamps. Clay shelves built into the walls suggest that these spaces once served as bedrooms or storerooms. Some of the more grand and elaborate houses likely belonged to wealthier residents, with one such house featuring a large majlis centred around a clay pillar. Despite their fragile appearance today, the original wooden rafters and other elements of these structures have endured centuries of harsh conditions, testifying to their resilience.

In a 2019 interview, Maryam al-Zadjali shared her vision for Imti: "My vision is to transform Imti into a vibrant hub where Oman’s rich heritage, art, and culture are both celebrated and preserved. I aspire to create a space that fosters creativity and collaboration, working in partnership with the local community and leadership to develop sustainable opportunities that also attract visitors and tourists. When I first encountered this town, I sensed its unique potential—a special energy that could be harnessed to create something truly remarkable."

She continued, "With the cooperation of the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, I initiated the project, ‘Immortalizing the Archaeological Moments in Art.’ This groundbreaking initiative is the first of its kind in the Sultanate, and I am eager to see my vision come to life. I believe that the Imti project has the potential to be an extraordinary attraction, offering a unique platform to showcase the work of local Omani artists and craftspeople. By intertwining this creative theme with the rich history of the area, we can establish a sustainable village that benefits the local community. Furthermore, I hope this project will inspire others to revive and restore many similar abandoned settlements across Oman."

Today, as one walks through Imti, it is clear that this vision is becoming a reality, with ongoing developments continuing to enhance this historic village.