The most populated city and port capital of Oman, Muscat is bordered by the desert and mountains and is home to Muttrah, which was once the centre of commerce in the country. The Muttrah Souq now is a major tourist attraction for traditional souvenirs that display the creativity of Omani and Indian artefacts.
The History
Discover the history and heritage of Muscat. Oman hotels located nearby Muttrah Souq provide easy access points to explore this trading centre point of the city. Located a mere 34-minute ride away from Avani Muscat Hotel, the Muttrah Souq was once the trading point for goods that came from India, Europe, the Middle East and other parts of the world. When Edmund Roberts, a diplomat visited Muttrah in the 1830s, the area was believed that be populated by approximately 8,000 people. Muttrah was also home to a vessel repair industry in the mid-19th century.
The Location and Urban Myth
Strategically located adjacent to the Muscat harbour, the Muttrah Souq has been a major point of trade due to its location that benefits sailors arriving from India and China. Locally known as the Al Dhalam Souq, which translates into darkness in Arabic was given its name due to the heavily populated marketplace that sunlight could not touch, thereby using lamps instead even during daylight.
The Marketplace
Tourists nowadays are at the convenience of discovering a range of items at the Muttrah Souq, from fragrances, spices, perfume oil and fresh jasmine. Additionally, the marketplace is also home to clothing items like headscarves and embroidered cloth that depicts the country’s culture in arts and crafts. In the present day, the Muttrah Souq has been renovated with traces of stained glass and lanterns in Arabic style.
Where Have You Seen the Muttrah Souq?
Have you ever wondered why the Muttrah Souq looks so familiar? It is no secret that the marketplace has been featured in several video games. The map of Muttrah Souq is a part of Project Reality and Battlefield 2 mod. Further, the 8th episode of the 17th season of The Amazing Race also featured the marketplace.
