Our excursion into the interior takes us into a different landscape, mountains with wonderfully colored stratification, wadis, oasis villages irrigated by the Falaj system, and even through a brief RAIN shower! Nizwa, once the capital of Oman, is one of the country’s oldest cities and trading centers. The Nizwa Fort is among the most visited tourist sites in Oman, rightfully so, since its large central tower commands views over a green valley of date palms and the sprawling city. The present fort configuration dates from the 17th century although the site was occupied in the 4th century CE. On our way to the fort we stopped at Nizwa souq and though we missed the goat auction, we walked though the fruit, vegetable, date, and spice markets, and watched artisans crafting the silver jewelry for which Nizwa is famous. The recently "restored" fort includes a museum with accounts of the site.
Returning to Muscat via Al Hamra village, we visit Bait Al Safah a home and museum which preserves examples of life in the old village, share a traditional meal of rice, vegetables, grilled meats, watermelon, and coffee, and watch women dressed in Abayua make our bread and roast coffee over open fires.
Our group of travelers is proving to be congenial and quick to absorb new experiences. The Omani people we encounter are friendly and hospitable. Tomorrow is Friday. We again leave the city to explore the ancient Falaj irrigation system and visit the first mosque built in Oman.
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