Sohar - Gateway to China
In the early Islamic period Sohar was the most important port of Oman. In those days the sailors from Sohar brought goods home from the whole of the Far East. Their mastery of the art of navigation was admired throughout the world and found its way into many tales and legends.
In the early Islamic period Sohar was the most important port of Oman. Chroniclers of the time such as Al Istakhri and Al Muqaddasi actually described it as the most important port in the whole Islamic world. Its origins stretch back to the fifth century before Christ and it is first mentioned in the 3rd century.
Directly after Islamisation the Persians were driven out of Oman and the flourishing town now took the name of ”Sohar”. In those days the sailors from Sohar brought goods home from the whole of the Far East. Their mastery of the art of navigation was admired throughout the world and found its way into many tales and legends. Sohar was given the nickname ”Gateway to China” and counted as one of the richest towns in the world.
It is alleged that Sindbad the sailor was born in Sohar. The fortress here is well worth a visit. Today it houses a museum with collections of artifacts representing different periods of Omani history.
After the destruction of the city in the 10th Century it never rose to its former glory, living a shadowy existence through the centuries. However, modern Sohar has created a new image for itself, developping more and more into an important industrial harbours.
Georg Popp
What makes this travel guide so special? This book is a product of the long-term personal friendship between the authors, Mr Georg Popp and Mr Juma Al-Maskari and their continuing fascination with the Sultanate of Oman. Combining their insights from European and Omani perspectives, they have produced a guide which is as much about culture and history as it is a practical guide for planning your itinerary.
