Nizwa Fort is one of the oldest forts in Oman built by Imam Sultan bin Saif al Yaarubi in 1668 AD.
The most striking feature of the fort is the central tower — a colossal circular tower soaring 30m above the rest of the fortification. Solidly built, the 36m-diameter structure radiates an aura of might, complete with battlements, turrets, secret shafts, false doors and wells.
A total of 120 sentries, armed with muskets and flintlocks, could be summoned to man positions along this parapet wall in times of siege. Furthermore, 480 gun-ports allowed for a concentrated barrage of fire if the fort came under attack.
Four cannons now remain on the tower’s summit, down from a total of 24, which once served as the fort’s main firepower. They provided complete 360-degree coverage of the countryside around, making it virtually impossible for a sneak attack.
Library
Underground cellars stockpiled food and munitions.
Fort was built above a subterranean stream that ensured a perennial supply of water when subjected to a prolonged siege. Several water wells located within the fortified compound also ensured plentiful supplies.
Fort’s jail
Those who did manage to run the gauntlet of hurdles risked being scalded by boiling oil or water that was poured through shafts, which opened directly above each set of doors. Date syrup, a liquid that oozed from bags of dates stored in special date cellars, also came in handy as an alternative to oil and water.
Defensive features – click for bigger version
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