Al Rawdah Fort in Al Mudhaibi: Detailed Accurate Study
1. Geographical Location
The fort is located in Al Mudhaibi, North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, on a rocky plateau overlooking Wadi Al Rawdah. It is approximately 20 km from the state center and overlooks palm farms and falaj irrigation systems.
2. History and Construction
Built by: Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Ya'arubi II
Period: 1649-1680 AD (Ya'aruba era)
Last restoration: 2018 under the supervision of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism
Primary purpose: Administrative and military center for protecting trade routes
Period: 1649-1680 AD (Ya'aruba era)
Last restoration: 2018 under the supervision of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism
Primary purpose: Administrative and military center for protecting trade routes
3. Architectural Divisions
Main Tower:
- Circular shape (10m diameter, 15m height)
- Commander's room on the upper floor
- Ammunition storage at the base
Outer Wall:
- 8 meters high with archer openings
- Two side towers (northern and southern)
Residential Section:
- Inner courtyard with a 20m deep well
- Governor's room with traditional fireplace
- Small mosque (partially preserved)
- Circular shape (10m diameter, 15m height)
- Commander's room on the upper floor
- Ammunition storage at the base
Outer Wall:
- 8 meters high with archer openings
- Two side towers (northern and southern)
Residential Section:
- Inner courtyard with a 20m deep well
- Governor's room with traditional fireplace
- Small mosque (partially preserved)
4. Advanced Systems
Ventilation system: Upper "badgir" openings
Storage: Underground date warehouses
Water: Channel connected to falaj systems
Storage: Underground date warehouses
Water: Channel connected to falaj systems
5. Historical Significance
Tax collection center during the Ya'arubi era
Temporary headquarters for Imam Ahmed bin Said Al Busaidi
Withstood Portuguese invasions in the 17th century
Temporary headquarters for Imam Ahmed bin Said Al Busaidi
Withstood Portuguese invasions in the 17th century
6. Current Status
Museum displays:
- Traditional weapons
- Agricultural tools
- Historical documents
Events:
- Annual heritage festivals
- Cultural tourism programs
- Traditional weapons
- Agricultural tools
- Historical documents
Events:
- Annual heritage festivals
- Cultural tourism programs
7. Visitor Information
Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday (8AM-4PM)
Fees: 1 Omani Rial for adults
Free: Children under 12 years
Closed: Fridays
Fees: 1 Omani Rial for adults
Free: Children under 12 years
Closed: Fridays
Conclusion
Al Rawdah Fort is not just a historical building, but a living testament to the greatness of Omani civilization and the evolution of military architecture. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to travel through time and learn about the brilliant design that combines strength and beauty. Whether you're interested in history, engineering, or photography, the fort will captivate you with its intricate details and strategic location.
Al Rawdah Fort Location on Google Maps