Mirbat Castle is a popular tourist attraction for people who visit Oman, particularly during the regular tourism periods of the southern region, which vary from the rest of the country. The Dhofar Municipality describes Mirbat as “ a tourist attraction famous for its fascinating archaeological sites such as Mirbat Castle. The castle is distinguishable by its Omani style of architecture. While Mirbat Castle and its ancient complex is distinguishable by Islamic architecture, the tourists can also find here the tombs and graves of scholars.” Mirbat Castle was temporarily closed to the public and reopened on the 4th of July 2018, after extensive renovation works were undertaken on the building.
The Mirbat Fort is strategically located facing the sea and looking out to the harbour. The shore of Mirbat has lot to say from the ancients days, medieval period to modern history. The natural harbour had made it a significant point for commerce and trade. This is where the old souq of Mirbat is situated.
Today the Ministry of Tourism, after restoration, has enhanced the role of the castle by converting it into a museum that narrates the story of people of Oman and the culture and lifestyle.Tales of caravan trade The ground floor depicts the food and lifestyle of Oman.
Visitors to the castle also would be able to understand how traditionally, meals are served on the floor in a single serving of large tray filled with meat on a bed of rice. The groups of guests sit around each tray, depending on the number of people and share food, which the museum further explains as, “Food ‘under the protection of the household”.