28-05-2025
The importance of modern photography in uncovering and preserving Al Bazili Castle
Oman is a land of striking contrasts—towering mountains, sprawling deserts, lush wadis. While many are familiar with its grand mosques and bustling souqs, the country also conceals numerous ancient forts that whisper stories of bygone eras. Among these lesser-known marvels is Al-Bazili Castle, an ancient fortress that has largely remained under the radar, waiting for someone to tell its story.
Recently, a talented Omani photographer named Shihab al Shandoudi set out on a mission to do just that: to uncover and showcase the beauty of this forgotten site. His journey offers a rare glimpse into Oman's historical fabric and highlights why preserving these ruins is crucial to understanding Oman's past and nurturing its sense of identity.
The History Behind Oman's Forts
Before diving into Al-Bazili's story, it's worth understanding why forts have played such a vital role in Oman's history. For centuries, Oman's strategic location on the southern coast of the Arabian Peninsula made it both a trading hub and a battleground. Fortifications were essential to protect settlements, control trade routes, and defend against invading forces.
The importance of modern photography in uncovering and preserving Al Bazili Castle
Omani forts are renowned for their resilience and distinctive architecture, often built from coral stone, mud bricks, and reinforced with stone. Many of these forts date back to the early Islamic period, with some pre-dating that, and served as military and administrative centres well into the 19th and 20th centuries.
Some of the most famous forts have become a major draw for tourists. For example, Nizwa Fort stands as a testament to Oman's golden age, offering spectacular views over the ancient city and insights into traditional Omani life. Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its imposing walls and labyrinth of alleyways. Jabrin Castle, with its finely decorated interiors, stands as a reminder of Oman's medieval splendour. These sites attract visitors from around the world, eager to walk through history.
However, many other forts, like Al-Bazili, remain relatively obscure, their stories waiting to be told. This is where modern photography, driven by passion and curiosity, becomes a powerful tool for cultural preservation.
The importance of modern photography in uncovering and preserving Al Bazili Castle
Discovering Al-Bazili Castle
About 35 kilometres from the wilayat of Dhank, hidden within a rugged desert landscape, lies Al-Bazili Castle. Its battered stone walls and ancient arches stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history. Shihab AlShandoudi first encountered a fleeting glimpse of the fort in a brief video clip years ago. The image haunted him, and his curiosity grew, compelling him to seek out the site for himself.
His journey wasn't straightforward. The location isn't easily found—without local knowledge, it could easily be missed or mistaken for a natural formation. With a little local guidance, however, Al Shandoudi finally reached the site and was immediately captivated by its silent grandeur.
'Apart from its age and structure, what struck me most was the intricate craftsmanship—the way the arches and geometric patterns reveal a traditional beauty that's hard to find elsewhere,' he explained.
Using a combination of advanced photography techniques, including aerial drone shots, AlShandoudi captured the castle from perspectives most visitors would never see. His preferred times for shooting? Dawn and dusk—the moments when the light softens and bathes the ruins in a warm, golden hue. It's during these quiet hours that the textures of the ancient stonework are revealed most vividly.
The importance of modern photography in uncovering and preserving Al Bazili Castle
While the summer heat is fierce, Al Shandoudi emphasises that patience and preparation turn challenging conditions into creative opportunities. Even under Oman's baking sun, the glow of sunset or early morning light can transform a forsaken ruin into a hauntingly beautiful scene.
'Many people tell me, 'I didn't know about this place' or 'I never thought a site like this could be so beautiful,'' he says with a smile. His photos serve as a visual reminder of what's at stake—these sites are part of Oman's collective memory and cultural identity.
Looking ahead, AlShandoudi remains committed to uncovering more of Oman's hidden gems. His camera never rests, always seeking the overlooked, the abandoned, and the forgotten. His mission is simple: to tell stories through images and inspire others to explore and preserve Oman's rich past.
'The world doesn't need yet another picture of a famous monument,' he says. 'It needs to see what's been hiding in plain sight—these stories that can tell future generations who they are and where they come from.'
Through his eyes, Al-Bazili Castle transforms from a silent relic into a vivid chapter of Oman's ongoing story. Every frame captured is a brushstroke in a broader effort to safeguard and celebrate the country's cultural legacy. It's a reminder that Oman's history isn't just written in books or etched into plaques—it lives in the stones, arches, and walls of its ancient forts.
Photos by Shihab Al Shandoudi
