Bahla Fort is just one of many historical forts in our mystery country. It is, however, one of the oldest and the only one listed as a UNESCO Historical Site. The site is an oasis in the foothills of the Jabal al-Akhdar (the Green Mountain, part of the Al Hajar Mountains) in the interior of the country, about a 1/2-hour drive from the city of Nizwa. Bahla was built by The Nabhani dynasty, which ruled the area and controlled the lucrative trade of Frankincense from the 12th to 15th centuries. Construction of the sprawling complex, which is enclosed by a wall over 12km in length, was on-going throughout Nabhani rule and beyond.
Can you name that country?
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5 Sentidos in our mystery country’s capital city is one of our favorite paladares. A paladar is a privately owned and operated restaurant, usually in a restored house. Paladares, among other micro-businesses, have flourished in the country since reform to the state-run economy took effect in 2011. Finding a variety of interesting ingredients is a challenge in this country of shortages and rationing, but with the help of an extensive black market and native creativity, there is no shortage of world-class dining in the larger cities.
This building stands over a cave on Patmos island where, according to tradition, St. John received the apocalyptic visions that became the last book of the Christian Bible, the Book of Revelation. This is a popular destination for Christian pilgrims and a common port of call for cruise ships.
The Paseo del Prado in Cienfuegos is the longest pedestrian promenade in the country. It stretches about 2km across the city to the malecón, the waterfront promenade. Developed by French settlers in the 19th century, Cienfuegos is much younger than the Spanish colonial cities of the country and its abundant Neoclassical architecture gives it a distinctive feel. Many of the city’s beautiful buildings can be seen along the Paseo del Prado.
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