Liwa, Oman
Liwa is a Wilayah 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.
Geography
The Wilayah of Liwa is located in the Al Batinah North Governorate of Oman. The second wilayah away from the border with the United Arab Emirates, it is bordered to the north by the Wilayat of Shinas, to the south by the Wilayat of Sohar, and to the west by the Wilayat of Mahdah. It extends over an area of 925 km², distributed over 51 villages, the most important of which is Liwa Al-Jadīdah where most of the Wilayah's residents live.
Liwa is distinguished by its diverse natural terrain, ranging from sea to plains and from mountains to valleys. Characterised by its abundance of fresh water, the Wilayah has hot, humid weather in the summer and moderately cold weather in the winter. Rainfall is generally scarce and irregular, although sometimes it falls in heavy quantities. However, these short-lived rains are sufficient to create a wide-ranging system of water-bearing layers in the areas below the mountains, which are connected to the coastal areas and mountain slopes.
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.