Liwa, Oman

Template:Template other Liwa (Arabic: لوى) is a Wilayah (Province) in the Al Batinah North Governorate of Oman. It lies north of Sohar, overlooking the Gulf of Oman to its east. It is bordered northwest by the Wilayats of Shinas and Mahdah. Liwa is approximately 277 kilometers from the capital Muscat and the second province away from the border to the United Arab Emirates. As of 2020, it had a population of 18,321.

Etymology

Liwa in Arabic derives from the word for "swirl," and the province was allegedly named Liwa because the fronds of palm trees swirled around its central fort. In another interpretation, it was said it was attributed to the gathering of military banners due to the many wars fought there, as it was a place where many armies met.

History

Liwa is home to many historical landmarks, especially forts, with the most famous one being Liwa Fort. The fort is located on a hill in the middle of the province, and contains five towers and a small castle in the middle known as Al-Qasaba. Historically, this fort was regarded as the center of Liwa, and the headquarters of the mayor and local administration. Liwa also includes a number of tourist attractions represented in a number of water springs, streams, and caves, such as Al Azm water spring. There is also Abu Kahf Mountain, where the most famous caves in Liwa lie. Traditional boats made of palm frond are considered the city’s emblem, as they connect modern history with ancient history, which symbolizes the residents undertaking fishing as their profession and source of living.

Arts

Liwa is also famous of various popular arts, such as: Al Razfa, Al Hamasiya, Al Wana, Al Tariq, Al Mawlid, and Al Maqyad. In the village of Harmul, located in Liwa, graffiti art created by local artist Abdulmajeed Mohammed Salim al Mamari is frequently painted on walls across the village.