History

Oman's 12,000 year old civilisation is still evident all over the country. Over 500 forts, castles and towers in architectural style are proud witnesses of a glorious past. A wide collection of historical books and manuscripts are on display for the historical buff. Vestiges of Oman's prehistoric past indicating the presence of nomads who were hunters and gatherers go as far back as 13,000 B.C. Amr Ibn Al As, the companion of the Prophet Mohammed arrived in Oman to preach the word of Allah in A.D. 630 leading to Islam, that became the state religion. The present reigning dynasty of the Al Bu Said began with Ahmad Bin Said who came to power in 1744.