29 martie 2020

My trip with my family to Al -Ghasham House Museum to Al Rustaq hot springs

It was most beautiful trip which did I have with my family. I will not forget this trip never. That morning we went with the whole family on a short vacation. Maybe we should have more mini vacations of this kind of trip, to change the atmosphere, but also to see,  and to know the history and places of these beautiful country, Oman.
During this trip I had a lot of fun and many pleasant moments. In the morning we stopped and had breakfast. We stopped at a mini zoo to see animals, both wild and domestic. We arrived at Al-Ghasham House-Museum. The guide who introduced us was familiar with my husband's. I took many pictures and bought souvenirs to remember our trip. I bought my book from contemporary Omanese writers. After that we went to Rustaq, we heard that they are hot water baths. People come and stop to warm up and enjoy the view of Rustaq. Very nice, I wanted to visit the Rustaq Fortress, but unfortunately it was closed.             
                                 AL -Ghasham House Museum. 

History about Al Ghasham House Museum.It was named Al Ghasham House after its previous owner, Sayyid Mohammed bin Ahmed bin Nasser al Ghasham  Taimur bin Feisal, and Wali of Muttrah-who was know with this nickname. He lived in this house  with his family. Then became the home of Mr. Ahmed bin Hilal bin Ali Al Busaidi, father Almirdas bin Ahmed, and his permanent residence. It was also occupied by Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq bin Taimur, and His Highness when they used to come to spend the holiday with their grandfather, Sayyid Ahmed bin Hilal. The house was then  owned by Sayyid Almirdas bin Ahmed Al Busaidi, and wes finally bought by Sayyid Ali bin Hamoud bin Ali al Busaidi and restored to turn it into a museum.

It goes as far back as the reign of Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidi(1791-1856)- which means that the age of the house exceeds almost 200 years.
A new made-up Falaj( water stream) running in front of the museum, in addition to the open theater which accommodates more than 1000 people planted on it's sided some of the most will known Omani, palm trees, a surrounding wall, as well as shops selling gifts and antiques.
A cultural Forum of the museum, hosting cultural events as well as plays, artisitic evening and other activities, according to an annual plan, especially festivals, Eids, holidays, and other occasions.


 In the Middle Ages, Ar Rustaq (or Rostaq) was the capital of Oman. Today it is well known  for its large and dramatic fort, which has been  extended over years. It is also known for its citrus fruit and honey. Rustaq is located in the Western Hajar Mountains about 170 km south -west of Muscat. The fort has been restored and the large main watchtower is bellieved to be of Sassanid  origin. It was well equipped to withhstand long sieges, since it has its own  water supply. Legend has it that a tunnel once conected the Rustaq Fort to the neighbouring fort at Al Hazam.
Nearby attractions include a souk selling various items, and renowed sot spring( which also flow at Nakhal ). The hot springs in Rustaq have been  enclosed into  bathhouse  for men and women.( Directions to get  there- about 0,5km from main roundabout on the way  into  Ar Rustaq( 45 km  from Nakhal) turn right and continue for 1.5 km to the hot springs).
Also, 0,5 km from roundabout is a left turn  that leds to the old souk and fort - the bakery here is worth a visit for its sweet bread triangles. In the old souk( becoming less and less used these days) there's an old sandal maker, and you will  find selection  of Omani chests for sale.













The Ayn Al Kesfa springs, less than a kilometre from Rustaq, bubbles up from  deep below the ground  into two large pools. This natural springs is araound 45C
so take care if  you decide  to dip your toe in. The water is fed into a covered area which is used by locals bathing.

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