The present-day village of Bat is home to the core of an archaeological ensemble of settlements and necropolises. It offers a vivid insight into Az Zahira’s early heritage and is also a starting point for discovering other facets of the region.
Bat and the Early Settlements
The archaeological complex of Bat, al-Khutm and al-Ayn is considered an exceptionally complete and well-preserved ensemble dating from the 3rd millennium BC. Its core area is in the present-day village of Bat in Wadi Sharsah, about 24 kilometres east of the city of Ibri, in Al-Dhahira Governorate in northwestern Oman. The sites were added to the World Heritage List in 1988.
The necropolis of Bat comprises about 350 stone-built tombs and a large settlement area. The al-Ayn section of the complex consists of 21 well-preserved beehive tombs. The numbers and forms of the tombs give the archaeological heritage a tangible shape: the focus here is on an extensive settlement and individual, clearly distinguishable burial sites.
Forts and Historic Townscapes
Forts and preserved architectural features also shape cultural discoveries in Az Zahira. Ibri Fort is about 400 years old and has three towers. Al-Salif is known for its 110 archaeological houses and a traditional market. The region’s historical sites therefore offer contrasting features: a fort with towers sits alongside a townscape shaped by archaeological houses and a market.
Beit Al-Marrah Fort lies near the remains of an old mud-brick village. Several buildings surround the fort, including a mosque built in the traditional style. In the Harat Al-Shabaniyah quarter of Yanqul, remnants of traditional architecture have been preserved, including old rooms, doors, windows and outdoor tannur ovens. Historic Al-Manikh Fort is a prominent landmark in Dhank and is connected with the area’s past and former way of life.
Wadis and Geological Features
Wadi Fida is suitable for a walk among lush fields along its banks; seasonal conditions can vary. At Wadi Damm, watercourses converge to form Wadi Al-Ain. The area is considered a suitable place to camp, where wildlife and the starry sky can be observed. Conditions depend on the weather and access.
Al-Kittan Cave in the Wilayat of Ibri gleams like marble and features geological formations and rock inscriptions. Access is difficult; a guide is recommended. Wadi Al-Fath is about 40 kilometres from Dhank. Geological rock formations shape the landscape there; at the end of the wadi is a raised rock that appears to float in the air.
Planning Highlights
Discover more destinations: Al Hayl, Al Khuzaymiyah, Ar Rimaylah, Buraimi, Ad Dakhiliyah, Muscat, Al Wustá, South Al Sharqiyah.
For the main travel overview: Oman.
