One of the area’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites (four separate listings grouped together under the label “Land of Frankincense”), Al-Baleed was the Dhofar region’s primary settlement from the 8th to the 16th century. Walk or drive through the archaeological park to discover the ancient city’s mosque, trenches and defensive walls set against a stunning Indian Ocean backdrop. Next door, the excellent Land of Frankincense Museum chronicles human settlement in the area since 2000 B.C.E., with a special emphasis on maritime trade and traditions.
