The best of Muscat
For most travelers, Muscat is just the starting destination for exploring beautiful Oman. Even here, however, you will find a number of interesting places that are worth visiting. Let's take a look at the most beautiful sights in and around Muscat.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Main Mosque in Oman
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is monumental modern building constructed of marble. Renowned is by a huge chandelier and Persian carpet. Thanks to the massive irrigation, its surroundings are green, strongly contrasting with the otherwise arid landscape. It is the only mosque in Oman accessible to non-Muslims. continue reading
Royal Opera House Muscat
Main Oman opera
The Royal Opera House in Muscat is one of the most important but modern buildings in Muscat (opened in 2011). The spectacular snow-white building reminds a little of the imposing mausoleum. The complex also has a restaurant and shopping center continue reading
View of Mirani Fort
A fortress guarding the harbor in Old Muscat
Fort Al-Mirani (built by the Portuguese) is, like the vast majority of Omani castles and forts, beautifully restored. The view on it is great from almost all sides. The fortress itself was largely destroyed in 1552, when Muscat was conquered by the Ottoman Turks continue reading
Old Muttrah Souq
One of the oldest Arab bazaars
The souq in Muttrah is considered to be one of the oldest in the entire Arab world. You will of course find spices, gold, but also classic Omani Khanjar daggers continue reading
Největší park v Muscatu
The largest park in Muscat
Qurum Natural Park is the largest park in Muscat. There is a big artificial waterfall, a large lake with gazebos and other attractions. To the park also belongs to the area of mangroves. It's a favorite spot for picnics, but mainly for the evening. During the day there is practically no visitors. continue reading
Fort at Muttrah
Dominant of Muttrah
The biggest landmark and monument of the city of Muttrah is the local fort. The fort was built during the Portuguese rule in the 16th century to protect the port of Muttrah from enemy attacks. Muttrah Fort is open to the public and tourists can explore its interior and climb its roof for a beautiful view of the Muttrah Harbor and surroundings. The fort also houses a museum that displays historical artefacts, weapons and documents on the history of Oman. continue reading
Sultan's Palace Al Alam
Official Royal Palace of the Sultans of Oman
Among the fortresses is the architecturally interesting palace of the Sultan – Al Alam – which means „The Flag“ in translation. The palace itself is not old at all, it was built only in 1972. Of course, it is not normally open to the public. continue reading
Al Jalali Fort
The second fort in the port of Old Muscat
Directly below Mirani Fort is Al Jalali Fort guarding the other end of the bay. Unfortunately, this fortress is not accessible to the general public (tourists). However, even looking at her is worth it. continue reading
Al Khor Mosque
Mosque under the Mirani fort
Another important local monument is located directly below the Mirani fortress – the Al Khor mosque. Al Khor Mosque has modern architecture with traditional Omani features. It is built of marble and decorated with many colored stained glass windows. continue reading
Gate Museum Muscat
Gateway to Muscat
In Muscat, you will also find a museum operating in the original massive entrance gate to the city. Here you can see an exposition dedicated to the history of Oman. Among the main attractions of the museum are historical photographs and artifacts that show life in Oman in the past. In addition, the museum also shows how Oman has evolved into a modern country. continue reading