Idea #38 – Visiting Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman
Muscat, located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman, is one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. Tombs of fishermen, dating back to the 6th millennium BC. AD were found near the site. In June 1507, Muscat was attacked and taken by the Portuguese Afonso de Albuquerque. In 1650, a local revolt drives out the Portuguese, and gives him independence. In 1749 begins the reign of the Abu Sa’id dynasty, in power until today. Their hegemony was based on the conquest of the Zanzibar counter in the 19th century, on the production of spices and on a stage relay activity in the triangular slave trade.
Long designated as the smallest capital in the world, Muscat and today sprawling and extends over 60 kilometers. Old Muscat, closed off by ramparts, recalls the formerly modest dimensions of the city. This district has a port closed by two forts, and shelters the palace and the ministries of the Sultan. In the nearby bay, Muttrah consists of the souk and the modern port, where you can admire old traditional boats and the imposing Sultan’s yacht.
Some Pictures
Where is it ?
Mascate, Sultanat d’Oman