The famous Mutrah Fort

The Mutrah Fort, which rises out of the rock on which it is built, casts an imposing figure above the bay. If you want to get a good look, climb the steps that spiral up the side of the cliff. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the surrounding harbor and the Gulf of Oman. Mutrah Fort was built by the Portuguese during their 1580s occupancy as a strong defensive precaution against the marauding Ottoman army. It's one of several forts erected here, including Al Jalali, Khasab, and Mirani.

Mutrah Fort is perched on a rocky, narrow hill that overlooks the Sultan Qaboos Tourism Port. For each visitor visiting Muscat, seeing the fort is a must. It is made up of three circular towers that still house ancient cannons that were used for defense in the past. During the week, visitors can also enter the fort's castle. It may be accessed by taking Mutrah Souq towards Wali Mutrah's office and then turning right towards the fort. Used for military purposes, it has at long last reopened to visitors. There's not much to see inside although the three-tower structure may be of interest to military buffs. Even if you have fort fatigue, it's fun to scale the flank of the building for a good view of Mutrah and the ocean.