This remote town on the edge of the Western Hajar Mountains was the Omani capital in the 6th and 7th centuries, and remains the country’s principal centre for study, culture and the arts. Its historic core holds several ancient mosques, whole streets of mud-walled buildings and a souk that’s famous country-wide for its handicrafts, particular silver amulets and necklaces.

From the slopes of the spectacular hills rising above it, Nizwa’s lush palm canopy dominates the landscape. This was one of the major oases for caravans crossing the vast desert to the south in times past, and the hinterland remains among the most fertile corners of Oman.