Nestled in the endless desert of Oman is one of the oldest marketplaces in the country, Nizwa Souq. At the very outset you would see only dilapidated buildings, trying to stand against the ravages of time, yet touched beyond repair by the numerous sand storms and detrimental weather that they had had to see. Perched behind this historical structure that is all that is left of the original Nizwa Souq is a set of newly constructed buildings, where the modern day Souq happens in full swing.
An extensive marketplace that is a go to for most items you would want, and for the cultural exposure that you would need, Nizwa Souq is mostly of fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, and meat. There is also a small portion dedicated to handicrafts and other artistic items that represent the culture of Oman. While any tourist can walk the streets among the green stalls, which are towered over by an ancient piece of the city wall, it takes a strong stomach and an olfactory numbing to visit the livestock souq.
Heading left from the entrance to a plot of bare land that is located just outside the city walls, you come to the livestock souq. The busiest time for this part of the souq is on Friday mornings, usually before 9am. An efficient trading of livestock takes place here, including that of sheep, goats, cattle, and at times camels. Continuing a tradition that is centuries old to this day, a visit here is well worth it if you can bear the pungent odour of hundreds of animals being herded in closed spaces.
A visit to Nizwa souq is not that difficult to manage due to its central location. It is about an hour’s drive away from popular accommodation options like Alila Jabal Akhdar. You can drive here or rent a taxi. Whichever way that you arrive at the Souq, make sure that you do pay a visit for the history and culture of the place that still remains makes Nizwa Souq a must-visit when it comes to Oman sightseeing.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
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