La citadelle de Hawrat Bargha dans le sultanat d'Oman

Résumé En

The fortress of Hawrat Bargha situated approximately twenty kilometers southwest of Sohar, has been considered, in the nineteenth century, as a fortification established by the Persians during the sixth century AD, in order to control the Batina coast of Oman. Although ceramics very much later than this date had been found within the walled area of the fort, the tradition of its pre-islamic date has persisted. Stratigraphic excavations conducted early in 1986 at Sohar have established a more precise datation for the construction and occupation of the fortress. During the second half of the 13th century AD, the Nabhânid kings of Oman who governed the Batina, had to face several invasions, coming from the south of Iran, in particular, those of the twelfth king of Hormuz, Rokn al-dîn Mahmud. The Nabhanids prepared fortifications in order to provide refuge for the rich agricultural regions at the foot of the mountains. Hawrat Bargha is an example of these constructions ; spectacular in its dominent location as well as its water management systems. The history of these Nabhânid kings was purposely obliterated in the chronicles of the succeeding dynasty of Ibadi Imams, leaving the heritage of the only ornamented mosques of the Nabhanids and the fortifications such as Hawrat Bargha.