Barka Fort, Military fort in Al Batinah Region, Oman
Barka Fort is an octagonal military structure near the beach with high defensive walls and several towers throughout its layout. The main entrance features intricately carved wooden gates that open into a series of interior rooms and courtyards.
This fortress was built in the 15th century and underwent several construction phases during different periods of Omani rule. A surviving defense tower from the same era shows how the fort developed over many decades to meet changing military needs.
The fort contains a traditional Arabic reception room with carpets and oil lamps that reveal how residents lived in earlier times. The spaces display personal belongings and furnishings that show the daily life of those who occupied this place long ago.
The fort is accessible from Thursday through Sunday, and visitors should allow enough time to explore all the towers and interior spaces. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable since moving through multiple levels and climbing to different sections requires physical activity.
A polygonal tower within the fort was designed by Imam Ahmed bin Sad and represents an early example of military architectural innovation. This distinctive design demonstrates how local rulers applied technical advancement to strengthen defensive structures.
Location: Al Batinah Region
Address: Barka Fort, Barka, Oman
Opening Hours: Thursday-Sunday 08:00-19:00
GPS coordinates: 23.70856,57.89504
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:48
Natural, cultural, and historical sites in the Sultanate of Oman including the Grand Mosque Sultan Qaboos, valleys Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid, forts Nizwa and Bahla, mountains Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, the Wahiba Sands desert, and coastal beaches. These places showcase the architecture, geology, and ecosystems characteristic of the country.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
52.3 km
Souk de Matrah
68.9 km
Royal Opera House Muscat
59.4 km
Rustaq
59.1 km
Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex
53.6 km
The National Museum - Sultanate of Oman
72 km
Nakhal Fort
35.6 km
Rustaq Fort
59.4 km
Al-Seeb Stadium
34.3 km
Al Sahwa Tower
38.8 km
Mutrah Corniche
69.8 km
Bait al Zubair
71.6 km
Fort Al-Mirani
71.9 km
Oman Botanic Garden
30.3 km
Royal Oman Police Stadium
63.4 km
Muscat Gate Museum
71.3 km
Sultan's Armed Forces Museum
67.3 km
Bait al-Baranda Museum
68.5 km
Oman Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre
63.3 km
Qurum Beach
60.3 km
Al Thowarah hot spring
37.7 km
Al Hazm Fort
46.5 km
Musée Bait Al Baranda
68.5 km
Rustaq Fort
59.4 km
Stal Gallery ستال جاليري
58.1 km
Qurum Natural Reserve
60.3 km
Athawarah Hot Spring
37.7 km
Al Hamz Castle
46.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes