Arabian Daze - 10

This post finds us still in the city of Nizwa, Oman. Today we'll look at the highlight and personal favorite from the "Enchanting Forts of Nizwa" full day tour -- Jabreen Castle.

Built in 1670, the layout consists of five floors with fifty-five rooms and two large towers. This castle is about 20 kilometers from Bahla, in Oman. You can read more about this palace HERE. I tried to take photos which showcased the beauty of this castle. Please enjoy the collages. ^_^

cutenekko at Jabreen Castle gate /  inside area, clay pots:

Bottom two photos: cannons and windows.

Two tourists resting / a famous Omani chest:
(I really wanted to buy one of those chests!! They are truly exquisite!!) 

We were given headphones at the start of the castle tour, thus freeing us from our guide. The headsets worked like magic, as you entered a room, the recording would start. It was completely hands-free and very nifty technology!

Inside, a library / lantern and traveler graffiti: 

cutenekko at the top of tower #1 / close up of book holders in the library

The grand courtyard / inner alcove with ornate ceiling:

Connecting walk / Flag of Oman in the clouds: 

This castle was my favorite stop of the tour. It was as if one were wondering through an Arabian Taj Mahal. Should you visit Oman, I highly recommend visiting Jabreen Castle.

cutenekko in a doorway / sunset view of Jabreen castle: 

View down from highest tower in castle / surrounding fields (date trees) 

I asked the guide to stop specifically for the photo below, left. It was so unique!

a "beware of camels crossing" sign / an elegant staircase inside Jabreen Castle: 

Our tour of Nizwa has concluded itself.  The forts, world heritage sites as well as other historical sites, were impressive. I returned to the cruise ship in time for dinner and we remained docked for another night in Muscat, Oman.

Photo stop before boarding the ship 

I'll post more photos from the port city of Muscat soon. ^_^

~ Information ~ 

Jabreen castle information is HERE. (via Oman Tripper)
Entrance fee: 500 Biazals / adult. 
Headsets available for a self-guided audio tour. Multiple languages available.  (Ours were included in the tour, extra fees may apply if you are traveling independently) 
Hours of operation: 09.00 ~ 16.00 Saturday to Thursday, Fridays: 08.00 ~ 11.00 

This castle visit was part of a full-day, 9 hour tour called "Enchanting forts of Nizwa". I booked on Viator. See the tour HERE. The local tour company running this tour is Orient Tour. Their website is HERE (highly recommended!)

Travel time from the port city of Muscat to Nizwa and surrounding areas: approx. 2.5 hours via car.