Al Araqi Castle

Al Araqi Castle lies in the village of the same name in the Al Dhahirah Governorate in Oman.

The Wadi Hawasinah that runs from the town of Ibri, north to the coast at Al Khabourah, was always an important route from the coastal plain, through the Hajar Mountains, into the Al Dhahirah region. The twin settlements of Al Araqi and Al Aynayn are situated north of Ibri, on the left bank of the wadi, and both have their own castle.

I don't know when Al Araqi Castle was built, but apparently it saw quite some action during the 19th century, when the region went through numerous changes of power from one faction to another. I could find no more historical information about the castle.

Where Al Aynayn Castle is still ruinous, the castle of Al Araqi was nicely restored some years back. It has 2 round towers and sits next to a palm grove and the old village souq.

When I visited, I found Al Araqi Castle closed. I don't know if it is ever open for visits. A nice village fortification.

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