HARAT AL BILAD
Recently opened to the public but still partially under construction, this old walled village, one of the oldest in Oman, is the largest group of houses and buildings currently undergoing total renovation. In all, no fewer than 376 houses and 250 wells dating back more than 900 years will eventually be renovated, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the Oman of yesteryear and gain a more accurate understanding of the architecture and lifestyle of the Omanis of yesteryear. While old villages and mud houses can be seen in many parts of the sultanate, no other group of buildings is so cohesive or so aesthetically pleasing. In addition to the charm of the narrow streets, vaulted passageways and low, elaborate doorways, there are four very old mosques (all accessible from the main street): Al Sharah, Al Ain, Al Rahba and Al Aa'li, probably built in the early 16th century. A rampart and towers encircle and protect the village, which is accessed through a number of gates, including the beautiful Bait Al Hisn on the south side, still called Hisn Najad after one of the wilayat's most famous students. Part of the work has been completed, but the site is far from finished, and additional attractions in the form of cafés, local craft stores, restaurants and guesthouses should eventually see the light of day. A short distance away, a visit to the brand-new Oman Across Ages Museum completes the visit admirably.
