Al Jalali & Al Mirani Fort

Forts and Castles are Oman's most striking cultural landmarks and together with its towers and city walls they have historically been used as defensive strongholds or look-out points. The Al Jalali and Mirani Forts are among Oman's most famous forts that stand at the entrance to Muscat bay.

The forts are the Capital's most prominent landmarks and were built in the 16th Century AD. Al Mirani, which was built before the arrival of the Portuguese, was originally shaped like a tower. In 1588 the Portuguese rebuilt it on the ruins of its old structure and added emplacements, stores, living quarters for the commander and a place of worship.

The building was enlarged to its present size in the reign of Imam Ahmed bin Said, the founder of the Al Busaidi state in the 18th century, and his grandson Sayyid Said bin Sultan, at the beginning of the 19th century. Al Mirani, soars a notch above the Al Jalali Fort. From its pinnacle, there are breathtaking views of the harbor as well as the entire old city in the protective embrace of the surrounding mountains.

The Portuguese completed the construction of the Al Jalali Fort in 1587. Its present-day structure dates back to the reign of Sayyid Said bin Sultan. Few historical structures showcase Omani martial skills and the grandeur of Omani fortifications in times bygone like Al Jalali Fort. The fort offers a wealth of insights into Oman's rich heritage and culture and was restored and converted into a museum in the reign of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Set in an authentic but grandiose ambience the grand museum welcomes visitors such as royalty, heads of state and other foreign dignitaries. Al Jalali and Mirani harbor-front location together with the Palace and other historical landmarks of Muscat's old quarter seem like elements from a picture postcard.