Nizwa Hotel Nizwa

Meeting the children at Nizwa Fort

by victorwkf

While visiting Nizwa Fort, I met a group of students on an field trip to learn more about the history of Oman. The children were very cute and even posed for this photograph, however the teacher (a lady) was very shy and refused to be in the photo. Generally, ladies in Oman do not like to be in photographs as this is part of the Islamic region.

More ruins

by flynboxes

If you have a good driver or the money to hire an actual guide/tour you will probably see this place. Sorry I lost my notes but if I recall correctly it was about a45 min to an hour from Nizwa. If you happen to know the name of the place shoot me a note and I will update it.

Thx

Nizwa and the People of Nizwa

by bwk_michael

"People Of Nizwa"

Nizwa is the largest city in the Ad Dakhiliyah Region in Oman and was the capital of Oman proper. Nizwa is about 140 km (1.5 hours) from Muscat. The population is estimated at around 70,000 people including the two areas of Burkat Al Mooz and Al Jabel Al Akhdar.

Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in Oman and it was once a center of trade, religion, education and art. Its Jama (grand mosque) was formerly a center for Islamic learning. Nizwa acquired its importance because it has been an important meeting point at the base of the Western Hajar Mountains. Set amid a verdant spread of date palms, it is strategically located at the crossroads of routes linking the interior with Muscat and the lower reaches of Dhofar thus serving as the link for a large part of the country. Today, Nizwa is a diverse prosperous place with numerous agricultural, historical and recreational aspects. Nizwa is a center for date growing and is the market place for the area.

"Life in Nizwa"

The city, famous for its handicrafts and agricultural products, has an expansive souq showcasing an array of products. It is one of the most important in the country besides Muttrah. The souq bustles with vendors selling everything from meat, fish, fruits and vegetables to spices, dates, gold and silverware. Nizwa is renowned for its silver jewelry which is considered to be the best in the country. Its people are masters in Khanjar making (curved dagger), recognised for its distinctive style and patterns. Silver jewellery sold here includes bracelets, earrings and ornaments for the hair. They also make copper ware, coffee pots, swords, leather goods and pottery. Visitors can watch expert craftsmen in action as they fashion a range of exquisite artifacts. Halwa (a traditional Omani dessert) is also sold in the souq. Halwa is a sticky dessert made from sugar and spices and flavoured with sesame seeds or almonds.

The far end of the Nizwa Souq hosts a lively livestock market early each Friday morning in the shade of date palm trees. Local farmers bring their cows, goats and sheep to be inspected, auctioned and sold to the highest bidders. The scene is crowded and busy especially on the eve of Eid festivities. The obstinate behaviour of the animals often provides great amusement for the spectators. Visitors get an excellent opportunity to observe local customs

"People of Nizwa"

Nizwa and the neighboring town of Bahla used to have a reputation of being homes to individuals who practice witchcraft and magic works. The most popular claim is instantaneous travel by drawing a line on the ground and crossing it to appear at the desired place. Another claim is spotting people who have been dead for many years. The explanation is that these people did not actually die but appeared to because they were eaten and then controlled by witches. Today, although many elders swear that they have seen weird things and witnessed supernatural acts, no one can substantiate these claims with hard evidence and they were likely due to superstition and lack of education in those old times.

Oman's Second City

by flynboxes

"Nizwa"

Nizwa is roughly a tour hour drive from Muscat and makes for an easy two day trip or if you have a car and don't mind getting up early you can make a day trip of it. The main highlight is Nizwa Fort which can be seen in around an hour...like other forts in Oman it is a bit lacking inside.

"The Souq"

the Souq is by far the higlight of Nizwa in my opinion. It is right next to Nizwa Fort so both can be seen in one day.

Nizwa - The Former Capital of Oman

by victorwkf

The town of Nizwa located inland among the mountains used to be the capital of Oman until it was moved to the port of Muscat which is near to the sea and therefore provide for better trade opportunities.

Today, Nizwa is a nice cosy town which is famous for its fort, souq (market) as well as a launching base to many attractions around this area such as Jabrin, Bahla, the Western Hajar Mountains etc (please visit my VT Oman sub-pages for more information on these various places).

Let me share with you some information about Nizwa which you may find useful, and perhaps give your comments and ratings.