Al Bilad Castle

Al Bilad Castle, also known as Nijad or Nejad Castle, lies in the town of Manah in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate in Oman.

The castle is situated on a field, only some 100 meters from the southern gate of the ancient fortified town of Harat Al Bilad. That town is said to date back to about the 11th century A.D. It is an abandoned settlement with town walls equipped with towers and 4 gates, built out of mud bricks and is currently being partly restored by the government. Sadly enough, the castle is not getting the same attention. I couldn't even find any historical information about it. So, if you know anything; please mail me.

The castle has a somewhat rectangular ground plan. Its gate opens up to the side of the ancient town. I suspect it was a forward fortification to protect the southern approach to the town.

Al Bilad Castle is freely accessible. Too bad is not looked after, like the town. It is now slowly crumbling away. On the north side of Manah there is also Al Faiqain Castle.

Gallery

The town defenses of Harat Al Bilad.