Oman is home to numerous hidden treasures, and the Wilayat of Manah is one such place, offering a remarkable blend of historical charm and natural beauty.
Located in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, Manah is approximately 160 km from Muscat, bordered by Adam to the south, Izki to the east and north, and Nizwa to the west.
The town is renowned for its rich heritage, distinctive traditional architecture, and centuries-old legendary tales woven into Oman's historical fabric.
The name "Manah" signifies a "grant, gift, or offering," as it was once a refuge for those seeking homes and livelihoods. The area is symbolized by the rare Mutak tree, which only grows in the village of Al Ain in Al Ma'arra.
This endangered tree holds medicinal properties, with its roots being used to treat ailments like asthma, acidity, and even snake and scorpion bites.
Manah is home to several historical neighbourhoods, including Al Faiqin, Al Ma'arri, Ma'mad, Ezz, and Al Mahiyul. Among these, the famed Al Bilad neighbourhood stands out for its ancient significance, dating back to the third millennium BC.
With 376 homes and 250 wells, Al Bilad is a testament to the unique Omani architectural heritage. As visitors pass through the Al Sabah door into Harat Al Bilad, they are enveloped by the echoes of past generations, winding through narrow alleyways and centuries-old mud houses.
These structures, steeped in history, hold countless stories of the daily lives of those who once resided there.
Despite its historical value, Al Bilad's revival has been slow. Managed by Omran Company, residents of Manah express concerns over delays in the neighborhood's restoration.
Dr Haitham al Abri, in charge of the restoration project, proposed converting Harat Al Bilad into a tourist destination featuring a museum, heritage inns, a café, and a craftsmen's center.
However, financial challenges and liquidity issues have hindered progress. Other investors, like Yahya bin Salim al Azri, have also proposed traditional events and solutions to infrastructure problems. Still, Harat Al Bilad remains a beacon of Omani history, with locals hopeful for its revival as a key cultural and tourist site.
From Harat al Bilad, visitors can embark on a journey through time to the nearby Fiqain Castle. The castle, perched atop scenic views, showcases the brilliance of traditional Omani architecture. Historically, the castle was accessible only via a rope hanging from an opening on the second floor, adding an air of mystery and intrigue.
Manah is also home to the Oman Across Ages Museum, which highlights the Sultanate’s journey through time—bridging its glorious past with its dynamic present and future. This interactive experience offers visitors a multi-sensory dive into Oman's cultural and historical heritage.
A crucial aspect of Manah’s identity is its agricultural landscape, enriched by a network of aflaj (irrigation channels). Manah boasts over 36 aflaj, the largest being the 20-kilometer-long Falaj Al Fiqain, dug by Imam Saif bin Sultan to address water shortages in the region. These aflaj not only sustain the region’s fertile farms but also create an oasis of greenery that provides visitors with a serene and tranquil escape.
For those looking to experience both history and nature, Manah offers a harmonious blend of ancient architecture, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty. The aflaj, green farms, and historical sites make it a truly unique destination where the past and present converge, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
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