Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts Tourism

Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts are two historic fortifications in the harbor of Old Muscat, Oman, standing as guardians of the Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century during their control of the coastal trade routes, the forts have been used as prisons and museums at different times in their history. Al Jalali Fort, located on the eastern side of the port, is accessible only by a steep flight of stairs or a slope, lending it a defensive edge. Al Mirani Fort sits to the west and is slightly less accessible to visitors than Al Jalali. Both forts were extensively restored in the 1980s under Sultan Qaboos's renaissance policy. Their commanding position offers stunning views of Muscat’s coastline and serves as a testament to the city’s strategic importance in the past. The forts' robust walls, traditional Omani architectural elements, and historical cannons showcase the military prowess of the era and have become a symbol of Omani heritage and cultural identity.