The entrance to the port of Muscat is framed by 2 impressive forts: Al-Jalali Fort to the east and Al-Mirani fort to the west. Perched high on the rocks, the forts look out over the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Oman. In the past, these forts guarded the port of Muscat.
In the early 15th century, Muscat was no more than a small port but by the beginning of the 16th century it had grown into an important trading centre. The Portuguese had been keeping an eye on it and decided to colonise Oman to increase their influence on the most important trade routes in the region. After several attacks by Ottoman warriors, the Portuguese built 2 forts: first Al-Mirani in 1550 and later Al-Jalali in 1587.