Best 6 Historical Places to Visit in and Around Muscat

Muscat is one of the most popular places to visit in the world. It is the capital city of Oman, nestled on the coast of the Gulf of Oman, and you need an Oman visa to visit Muscat. This city beautifully blends deep history with modernity and is immersed in ancient cultures. In the course of time, it has transformed into a lively and dynamic metropolis, but it has never overlooked its ancient charm. That’s why you will get to see a wide range of historical places in and around Muscat. 

Through its forts, archeological sites, palaces, and grand mosques, you can dive into the past and the grandeur of Oman’s heritage. These historical landmarks also display the architectural brilliance and cultural diversity. Whether you are a history lover or a casual traveler, the interesting history and stories behind these Muscat historical places​ will captivate your heart. So, if you are planning to explore Muscat, you should definitely add these historical places to your itinerary.

Historical Places​ In & Near Muscat

Let us discuss the historical places in and around Muscat: 

Nizwa Fort, Nizwa

Nizwa Fort is one of the most famous and most visited landmarks in Oman. It was constructed by Sultan Al Ya’ruba in the 17th century. This magnificent fort is widely known for its history of guarding the city of Nizwa and the adjacent regions. In this fort, you will get to see the Omani military architecture, enormous defensive walls, an elevated central watchtower, and a maze of corridors and rooms. All these things will give you a peek into how the fortress was utilized during the time of dispute. The fort also has a museum that showcases the artifacts that tell the story of the history and culture of Oman. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the town of Nizwa and the surrounding mountains from the top of the fort. 

• Location: Nizwa, Oman
• Entry Fee: Kids below 12 are free, and the adult fee is 5 OMR. 
• Timings: 9 am to 4 pm, Saturday to Thursday.

Bahla Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bahla Fort is one of the must-visit historical places. This fort was built in the 12th century by the Bani Nebhan tribe, who also ruled here. It is widely known for its extensive walls and outstanding construction. The strategic location of this fort made it an essential citadel throughout the history of Oman. Its complex architectural style, large buildings, towers, and walls have been preserved for hundreds of years beautifully. There are multiple archaic watchtowers from where you will get capturing views of the nearby deserted area. The intricate design and its massive size of the fort have become reasons for its popularity among those who are interested in Oman’s history. 

• Location: Bahla, Oman
• Entry Fee: 0.5 OMR for residents and 3 OMR for foreigners. 
• Timings: 8 am to 7 pm from Monday to Sunday

Al Alam Palace, Muscat

The Al Alam Palace is the presidential residency of the Sultan of Oman. The entry of visitors is prohibited inside the palace as it is a residence. But you can’t get over the beauty of the palace from the exterior, as its exterior exhibits the stunning Islamic architecture. The grand domes, colorful facade, and intricate design of the palace will surely captivate your heart. This palace is seen as the symbol of modern leadership of Oman, as it maintains the long-established traditions of the country. This palace is situated between the two well-known forts, Jalali and Mirani Forts. The Al Alam Palace is the most visited and photographed landmark of Muscat.

• Location: Old Muscat, Oman 
• Entry Fee: No entry fee for the ground, but entry inside is restricted
• Timings: 24 hours from Monday to Sunday

Birkat Al Mouz Ruins, Nizwa

A well-celebrated village, popular for its ancient remains and picturesque beauty, is Birkat Al Mouz. This village has a history that dates back centuries, as it was once an agricultural hub. Its ancient irrigation system channels, also known as Falaj, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also famous for traditional mud brick houses, which have been partially maintained unharmed till now. If anyone walks through Birkat Al Mouz, they will get to explore ancient ruins and narrow alleys. In this village, you will learn about the life of Oman in ancient times. It is surrounded by the mountains and date palm groves that add charm to this village. It is among the perfect historical places in and around Muscat where you can spot history and nature alike.

• Location: Near Jebel Akhdar base, along Nizwa–Ibra road
• Entry Fee: No entry fee 
• Timings: Opens all day for 7 days of the week

Jabreen Castle

The Jabreen Castle is also well-preserved in Oman, which is located near the town of Bahla. It was constructed by Imam Bil-Arab Bin Sultan in the 17th century and used as a residence. Later, it was represented as a military castle and a seat of governance. It has stunning architecture, featuring intricate designs, exquisite courtyards, and a beautiful landscape in the castle’s surroundings. In this castle, you will find several rooms, a library, a mosque, and numerous living quarters. Those who are interested in knowing the history and cultural significance of Oman should pay a visit to Jabreen Castle. The unique design and extraordinary architecture make this castle a must-visit place. 

• Location: Bahla, Oman
• Entry Fee: 3 OMR for foreigners/tourists and 2 OMR for residents,
• Timings: 9 am to 4:00 pm Saturday to Thursday, and 8 am to 11 am Friday

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

One more famous name added to the list of Muscat historical places is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This mesmerizing mosque is one of the largest mosques in all over the world. It is acknowledged as a symbol of the religious, spiritual, and cultural heritage of Oman. The heart-capturing architecture and carvings are a combination of traditional Islamic and modern styling. This mosque’s central dome is also among the largest domes in the world. Its interior is just as amazing, with pretty mosaics, detailed carvings, and a huge Persian carpet. As the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is open for all, even for non-muslims. Here, you will learn about the Islamic culture of Oman. The peaceful atmosphere and impressive design make it a must-visit spot for all in Muscat.

• Location: Al Ghubrah district, Oman
• Entry Fee: Free for all. 
• Timings: 8 am to 11 am Saturday to Thursday and closed on Friday (for non-muslims).

FAQs About Historical Places to & Around Muscat

What is the most famous landmark in Muscat?

Usually, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is considered one of the most famous landmarks in Muscat. The others are Al Alam Palace, Portuguese Fort, and the Royal Opera House in Muscat. 

What is the oldest historical landmark in Muscat?

The Muscat Old City Walls and Mutrah Fort are said to be the oldest historical landmarks in Muscat. 

Where is the old town in Muscat?

The old town of Muscat is also called the Old Muscat or Al-Madina al-Qadima, is located in the eastern part of the modern city.