NIZWA: Over 4,000 enthusiasts gathered in Nizwa for the Nizwa Heritage Walk, an event celebrating the rich cultural and historical heritage of the wilayat. Organised by the Tourism Committee of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, Nizwa Club, Al Somoud Adventure Team, and the Office of the Wali of Nizwa, the walk received strong support from both government entities and private sector organisations.
Commencing at the iconic Nizwa Souq, the walk was flagged off by Eng Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals. The route took participants through a tapestry of Nizwa's most prominent landmarks, including Al Wadi Al Abyad, Daris orchards, Harat Al Suwaiq, and Harat Al Aqur, offering glimpses into the area's storied past.
Highlights of the Heritage Route include Harat Al Suwaiq: Known for its traditional Omani architecture, including mudbrick houses, narrow alleys and fortified gates, participants explored its iconic entrance featuring historic defensive structures and a sentinel tower.
Bait Saleet Fort: This three-story fortress, flanked by watchtowers and adjacent to Falaj Daris, a Unesco World Heritage Site, showcased its strategic importance in controlling access to northern Nizwa.
Harat Al Madda: Once a bustling commercial hub, this area featured traditional gates known as Sabah and a glimpse of its historic marketplace.
Falaj Daris Path and Harat Al Aqur: The route led participants through lush greenery, ending at Nizwa Fort. Harat Al Aqur’s ancient mudbrick houses, eighth-century mosques and the well-preserved Al Aqur Wall stood as enduring symbols of Nizwa’s rich legacy.
Khalfan bin Hamad al Zaydi, Chairman of Nizwa Club and head of the organising committee, expressed his gratitude for the event's success. “We are delighted with the participation of 67 walking and adventure teams, women’s associations and local community groups. The event unfolded smoothly, with no health incidents reported. We eagerly anticipate hosting the second Nizwa Heritage Walk in November 2025, coinciding with the 55th National Day celebrations.”
The walk offered participants a unique blend of sports, tourism and cultural discovery.
Stops along the route included rest areas under the shade of Wadi Kalboh's trees, where participants learned about the history of the landmarks. The event emphasised Nizwa’s deep-rooted heritage while fostering connections among participants and promoting appreciation for Oman’s rich cultural identity.
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