Al Khuzam Castle

Al Khuzam Castle lies in the village of Samad Al Shan, in the Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate in Oman.

The village of Samad Al Shan is spread out along a couple of oases in the valley of the Wadi Samad. Human settlement here has been attested to date back to at least the Late Iron Age.

To what period Al Khuzam Castle dates back, I don't know. I found one remark citing it to date back to the first millennium B.C., which was accompanied by another remark correcting that and stating it was built some 900 years ago. I, however, guess both dates are wrong and that the present remains are more likely to date back to the 16th/17th century. I was not able to find any other mention of the castle or its history. If you know more, please mail me.

The castle ruin is situated on a rocky outcrop. Seeing it present remains, it was quite a substantial fortification, with an inner castle on the rock surrounded by an outer castle. It is within viewing distance of the 19th century Bait Al Khabib Castle.

Al Khuzam Castle is freely accessible. But beware of a flock of panicky goats, who seem to call it home. A very nice castle ruin.

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