Cultural sightseeing in Oman. What to visit - museums, temples, castles and palaces

Traveling aficionados rarely include Oman into a list of their must-visit destinations, and this is definitely a mistake. The country of deserts and coastlines is full of wonders, so it is incredibly interesting to visit local museums, take a look of fabulous mosques, and visit important historic landmarks. Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a wonderful city to explore. Its historic district is full of attractive houses with balconies. There are also several old buildings near the coast. Tourists can admire mosques, enjoy shopping or simply take a stroll along the waterfront. Muscat is also home to the Royal Opera Theater that regularly hosts interesting plays and operas with talented performers from all parts of the world. The theater also organizes special educational programs for adults and children. This is the cultural heart of the country.

The National Museum of Oman was opened in 2016. Its exhibition is dedicated to all important epochs in the history of the country, starting from the moment when first settlers appeared in the territory of modern Oman almost two million years ago. The museum’s visitors can see ancient ships, old weapons, clothing, jewelry, tombs, furniture, utensils, and much more. There is also a souvenir shop in the museum. That being said, not only the past is cherished in Oman. The country also supports its modern talents. Ghalya’s Museum of Modern Art in Muscat is one of the best places to get acquainted with works of modern Omani masters. The venue exhibits paintings and photographs that are mostly dedicated to the lifestyle and traditions of Oman.

The Museum of Natural History in Muscat opened in the middle of the 80s of the previous century. It offers items that are dedicated to the nature of Oman. Such geological findings as ancient fossils, skeletons, stones, shells are all comfortably exhibited and have detailed descriptions in both Arabian and English. If the history of shipbuilding sounds more interesting than natural finding, the city of Sur is the place to visit. In Sur, tourists can visit the Maritime Museum. It is a large open-air museum that exhibits authentic Arabian boats and ships. In some days, it is even possible to see how wooden ships are being made. By the way, these ships do not have a single nail. As the museum is located near the coast, visitors can also see modern watercrafts passing by. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Museum of the Land of Frankincense is open in the city of Salalah. The museum is open in a relatively not big building with models of various ships. It is also the ruins of a 12th-century port. The unusual museum is dedicated to the history of sailing and frankincense oil trading. Moreover, it is a very interesting place from an ethnographic point of view. There are cane bushes and a big park nearby. In Muhafazat Ash-Sharqiyyah, in the city of Al Kamil Wal Wafi, tourists can visit the Old Castle Museum. This venue exhibits a private collection of various artifacts brought from different parts of the world as well as works of local masters. Vases, paintings, weapons, taxidermied animals, jewelry, décor items, a whole room with porcelain, and many other interesting artifacts wait for guests of this museum who will be able to open with museum like a shell with a pearl inside.

Sultan Said bin Taimur Mosque was opened in Muscat in 1999. This mosque, which is dedicated to the sultan of Oman from the 30s to the 70s of the previous century, is another treasure in the beautiful capital of the country. Sultan Said bin Taimur Mosque was built by an order of the sultan’s son in order to commemorate the memory of the father. Two fifty-meter-tall minarets, gorgeous design with stained glass windows and line balance make the mosque one of the beautiful in the world. The building can accommodate more than two thousand prayers. Unfortunately, only Muslims are allowed to step in, and everyone else can only admire the look of the mosque and relax in the adjacent garden. Sultan Taimur bin Faisal Mosque is dedicated to the ruler of Oman at the beginning of the 20th century. This is a new mosque that is open for everyone. Travelers can visit it for free from Saturday to Thursday from 8 am to 11 am. Marble, mosaics, and skilled wooden carvings add a touch of elegance to this gorgeous mosque.

In the central of Muscat, there is a Hindu temple - Sri Krishna Temple. The presence of a temple of another religion in Oman is a proof of tolerance of Omani Muslims and a mutually respecting approach of people of different confessions in the country. Sri Krishna was approved by the sultan and is located not far from a mosque and a Christian church. Peace and silence reign inside the temple. Outside, visitors can relax on crisp white benches and enjoy the harmony of the neighboring cultures that are so different but that are all based on love and compassion. On holidays, the temple hosts colorful festivals. Christian travelers will find it particularly interesting to visit Saints Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Church in Ruwi, the main business district of Oman. Christians have had divine service in this church since the 70s of the previous century. Not only Catholics but also all curious tourists will enjoy a visit to this church. This is a place where Christians in Oman express their love for Christ.

Misfat al Abreyeen not far from the settlement of Al Hamra is the ruins of a medieval village conveniently located among tall palm trees. It is a wonderful place to take a stroll, enjoying the historic area, lush greenery, and beautiful old Omani buildings. In Jabrin, travelers can visit an old restored fort that has the same name as the city. It is a building with fine, clear lines that has been transformed into a museum. This is a labyrinth of 55 rooms and steep ladders that is better to explore together with a guide. Another popular fortress, Bahla, is located in Nizwa. The famous UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest forts in the country.