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The nation of Oman boasts a number of interesting sightseeing attractions and one of them is the historically significant Al Hazm Castle. This impressive fortification as well as the nearby village date to the 18th century, having been founded by the Imam Sultan bin Seif who belonged to the Ya'aruba lineage. This revered cleric's remains were entombed within the fort itself. The castle features two imposing towers as well as an appealing enclosed central courtyard. This courtyard is adjoined by a number of small chambers, which were employed for the safekeeping of rice and dates. Other than these features, the visitor will see the living quarters of the cleric and members of his family. There are also chambers for a madrassah or school of Qu'ranic instruction as well as a kitchen where meals were prepared. The protective walls of the castle are immensely strong, measuring no less than 3 metres thick at their narrowest point. Since this fortified castle was constructed as long ago as 1711, it is not surprising that it was impregnable during its years of use. The fort also features suitably impenetrable doors, each 2.5 m tall and 30 cm in thickness. These sturdy doors are studded with brass and also display intricate carvings. These mighty fortifications are the reason that there are no records of the defences of the fort being breached.
As you might expect from a fully functional fortress, you will also see escape tunnels leading away from the site, to be used as a last resort. Amazingly one of these tunnels extends a full 32 km to the Ar Rustaq Fort, whilst the other leads in another direction to the coastline. The Al Hazm Castle is renowned as a splendid specimen of the time-honoured Islamic architectural traditions of Oman. However, it is distinctive in its immense size and majestic contours which differentiate it from other Omani constructions. Visitors to Oman should make it a point to explore this splendid fortified castle and its picturesque environs. The discerning visitor considering Oman hotels will find an outstanding choice in the Sur Plaza Hotel. An excellent hotel Sur Oman has to offer its visitors, this convenient rest features well-appointed accommodations and courteous hospitality. Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+
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