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MHT restores 400-year-old Muqazzah Mosque in Dakhiliyah

Wednesday, 5 November 2025 20:02

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has completed restoration and maintenance of the historic Muqazzah Mosque in Izki, Dakhiliyah governorate, as part of its efforts to preserve heritage buildings and religious landmarks across Oman. Believed to be more than 400 years old, Muqazzah Mosque is among the oldest in the wilayat. It is known for […]

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has completed restoration and maintenance of the historic Muqazzah Mosque in Izki, Dakhiliyah governorate, as part of its efforts to preserve heritage buildings and religious landmarks across Oman.

Believed to be more than 400 years old, Muqazzah Mosque is among the oldest in the wilayat. It is known for its traditional Omani architectural style, reflecting craftsmanship in stonework, wood, and decorative elements.

The mosque features an outer courtyard on the eastern and southern sides, including a main inner mihrab. The original large wooden entrance thresholds have been preserved for their historical value.

Inside, the prayer hall contains two circular columns connected by traditional arches forming the mihrab façade. The mihrab is considered a rare artistic feature, decorated with 18 ceramic plates in varying shapes and colours including blue and green, and engraved with motifs of birds and stars.

Restoration works included removing damaged sections and rebuilding them with original stones, applying moisture-resistant materials, and repairing cracks in walls, arches, and columns. Internal and external walls were treated using materials compatible with the mosque’s historic architecture to protect its structure and maintain its original style.

The project also rehabilitated internal and external components while preserving the mosque’s visual identity and architectural details, ensuring its historical and aesthetic character is sustained.

The ministry said the restoration is part of ongoing efforts to protect historic and religious sites, promote the sustainability of Omani architectural heritage, and pass it on to future generations.

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