Muscat was not an easy place to conquer, and the twin forts made it nearly impossible. I am referring to the forts Al Mirani and Al Jalali, which are perched high on the rocks. These forts overlook the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Oman, thanks to the region's rocky coastline. They reflect the architectural and traditional history of the Sultanate of Oman, which is home to several forts, including Jalali Fort, Mirani Fort, and Mutrah Fort.
After exploring Al Alam Palace, our taxi was heading northeast. I asked the driver if I could sit in the front seat to take some nice photos.
I got a very nice view from the running car. I tried to get some photos.
Our destination, Al-Mirani Fort, was in front of us, behind the Al Khor Mosque.
Al jalali
We were there around 8 o'clock, so there wasn't much traffic. After parking the car, we first saw the rare side of Al-Alami Palace (the Sultan's residence) and Al-Jalani fort, because of the strong morning sun, I couldn't get a good photo, but I guess the fort must be a beautiful sight.
Al Jalali and Fort Mirani are both located on the Gulf of Oman and provide strategic control over the port. Today, Al Jalani primarily serves as a museum and exhibition site, it is not open to the public. The driver mentioned it is very fascinating to see, and even though you can’t explore it up close, you can still enjoy the view, as it is situated near the Sultan's Palace. We used our time around the Al-Alam Palace but didn't have time to spend for that fort.
Before 2024, Al Mirani was also closed to public visits. Last year, in April 2024, it was opened as a tourist attraction. We were eager to explore. Our driver mentioned that the entrance ticket was expensive, but we were determined to take advantage of the opportunity. We paid around 10 Omani rials per person, ca. 22 Euros, and considering how much we might spend for similar tourist sights in some European countries, it felt worthwhile.
This is the photo I captured in the museum's hall at the entrance.
As soon as you enter the fort's left side, they have ticket counter and a lift/elevator,
We preferred to walk instead of taking the elevator.
The architecture is very beautiful. we went upstairs to see this tower.
the round hall had many windows with views from different angles and sides.
The ceiling was supported by one central pillar, they used bamboo mats to cover the ceiling to protect against heat.
From one window, we can see the road along the Gulf of Oman. One tunnel leads to town, while the other goes far to the Sultan of Oman's Naval Base.
the naval base stretched up to this structure and around the rocky hill.
From another window, we can see a tower of Al-Mirani fort.
The ophiolite rock hills on which several forts like Jalali Fort, Milani Fort, and the Mutrah Fort were all tactically built, aimed at defending against an enemy’s invasion. Now they stand tall, reflecting the history and welcoming visitors, though some of them are open only to VIPs from all across the globe. we didn\t qualify.
When we come on top. It was an open terrace where we could see the view all around.
The road along the Gulf of Oman goes to the Sultan of Oman's naval base area.
There was one telescope but we didn\t use it.
The other side view of Old Muscat City. Including the Al Khor Mosque and the Bayt Greiza museum.
From this open tower balcony, we can see all corners of the fort and the view of the surrounding area.
When I saw the tallest tower of the fort, I was eager to go up and check if we could go inside and climb to the top but it was not obvious how to get there
still many things to see from here.Bayt Greiza garden
The tower faces toward the palace; it must have stairs to climb up, but that was also closed to visitors.
Al Alali Palace from a different angle.
Fort cafe open gallery.
Al Mathaeeb gate. From the one corner of the fort.
The second floor, back where we were in the beginning.
Fort cafe wasn't open yet, but the workers were preparing to open soon.
It was quite confusing with different levels and passageways but i finally discovered the way to go up to the tall square tower.
The view from the top of the stairs was excellent. But the door was locked so we couldn\t get to the top of the tower. catching my breath, I waited for my husband who had tried a different approach but had to turn back. eventually we managed to take a selfie together. Then, we went downstairs.
Some parts of the fort are still not open for tourists.
the taxi driver recommended seeing these 8 canons, and finally we found it, but I was actually more interested in viewing the surroundings through the windows.
The views of old Muscat, the mountains, and Al Khor mosque was amazing.
Standing on the harborside balcony at Mirani fort, the delightful mushroom-like pillars in blue and gold are the Sultan’s Palace. On the inland side, an avenue of palm trees leads to a roundabout surrounded by grand royal court buildings and the new National Museum. Omani architects utilized thicker walls built from stone for added strength and stability. These walls were finished with sarooj, a sturdy plaster made from a mix of loam, sand, and lime. The innovative use of local materials allowed these buildings to endure the test of time while blending harmoniously with their surroundings.
When we returned to the hotel, we saw a giant essence burner monument standing on top of the hill, welcoming boat tourists. It offers stunning views of the surrounding rocky landscape, the port of Mutrah, the cruise ship, and the two state yachts stationed there..
essence burner
It was our short journey to Muscat. But we took the advantage to explored it as much as possible we can. And enjoyed our trip. Ended with Ai Milani Fort.
Thank you.
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