Ibra - Al Minzafah and Old Souq

There are many stunning ancient villages, mud brick ruins in Oman - unfortunately there is not much information out there in English about these ancient settlements. What I could find about these beautiful buildings in Ibra is that they were mainly built in the 18-19th century from money sent by family members from Zanzibar, which used to be ruled by Oman and used to be a very important trading center. There are many 3 story high buildings - not very usual around here either. Also, the buildings and doorways are beautifully decorated and the few doors still in place are just stunning. Another unusual feature are the decorated arches. Perfect place for getting lost and being transported back in time - you can almost hear the footsteps of once upon a time residents. 

Getting there: the parking is at 22.6857,58.5324. Google maps tend to direct through the gardens and through really narrow roads, so instead head to this crossing to turn towards the parking. Once parked, start walking towards the ruins and make sure you walk to the second part as well, which is marked as Old Market of Ibra on google maps. Do not just stick to the main streets and explore the buildings inside with caution!

Ibra is around 170km from Muscat, and it takes around 2 hours to get there - if you do not want to drive just for this, it is a perfect stop on the way to the desert. Make sure that you stop by at Karma Café for a bite or drink, or both!

It is a salon car and toddler friendly trip. In the shade of the buildings, it was bearable even in a warmer day to walk around.

The stunning doors