Muscat, Oman
Mutrah Fort crowns a narrow rocky ridge on a headland at the eastern end of the Mutrah corniche, overlooking a harbour always busy with ships and boats. The Portuguese built it in the 1580s as part of Muscat's defences; after their expulsion it became part of the Omani coastal defences, and it seems to have guarded what was once the only passage between Mutrah and Muscat. Today it consists of three round towers joined by walls: a large tower at the top and two smaller ones, one at the western tip and the other to the north near the main tower, still holding an old cannon. The fort was restored in 1981. It is one of Mutrah's landmarks, and the view of it above the corniche, with the minarets, waterfront houses and souq below, is one of Muscat's loveliest scenes, especially at sunset and when lit at night.
According to Wikivoyage the interior is not open, but visitors are usually allowed to climb to the outside for the view over the harbour and corniche. Go up late in the day when it is cooler, in shoes suited to rocky steps. Combine it with a walk along the Mutrah corniche, the souq and Bait al-Baranda.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: ar.wikipedia.org
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AttractionMuscat, Oman
