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Muscat
Muscat became the capital of Oman in 1793 but its origins lie much further back in time. Its name translates as ‘anchorage’ and the concealed harbour was mentioned by the geographer Ptolemy in the 2nd century AD. It is still an important port today and a major contributor to the city’s economy. Surrounded on three sides by mountains and with few high rise blocks the city retains an air of elegance and classical Arabian design that well rewards a visit.