National Museum Event Highlights Archaeology’s Role in Tourism and Cultural Identity

Muscat: The National Museum, represented by the Learning Centre and in collaboration with the Embassy of the Italian Republic in Muscat, organized an event titled 'Italy and Oman Promoting Tourism and Cultural Identity through Archaeology'. According to Oman News Agency, the event was held under the auspices of Jamal Hassan Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum, and attended by ambassadors, experts, specialists in archaeology, tourism, and culture, as well as academics, students from the College of Tourism, and individuals interested in cultural and historical affairs. The event aimed to foster dialogue and exchange of expertise among specialists, contributing to the development of joint initiatives that enhance cultural heritage as a key resource for comprehensive development. It also emphasized archaeology's role in preserving cultural identity and supporting the sustainable tourism sector, reflecting the civilizational value of human heritage. The event commenced with a speech by Pierluig i D'Elia, Ambassador of Italy to Oman, who expressed appreciation for the collaboration between Italian and Omani archaeologists, supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Italy. Dr. Fatma Mohammed Al Balushi, Adviser to the Secretary-General for Museum Affairs, delivered a paper on the National Museum's efforts to showcase the work of Italian archaeological missions in Oman, highlighting bilateral cooperation in exhibitions, lectures, and cultural activities. Tommaso d'Errico, Honorary Consul of Oman in Florence, presented a paper on the architectural legacy of his father, Architect Enrico D'Errico, discussing the historical and engineering value of Omani forts and castles. He highlighted notable examples such as Adam, Jabrin, Khasab, Bahla, Al-Mirani, and Muttrah forts and castles, as well as the historic site of Qalhat, demonstrating their multiple functions and importance as tourism assets. Prof. Sara Pizzimenti from the University of Pisa and Professor Khalid Ahmed Douglas from Sultan Qaboos University presented findings from excavations at the al-Taykha site in the Wilayat of A'Rustaq. The site, one of the largest settlements of the Umm an-Nar culture, revealed a complete settlement with residential buildings, circular tombs, and massive circular towers, highlighting trade links with Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley and an economy based on copper production. These events are part of the National Museum's Learning Centre's continuing education programme, aimed at enhancing cultural awareness of Oman and building communication bridges with cultural institutions regionally and internationally.