Staff Reporter
Muscat, March 22
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism continues to restore and maintain 310 historical and archaeological sites in all governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.
The ministry lists and documents the historical and archaeological monuments and ancient lanes, targeting the largest possible number and protecting them from extinction, so that they remain a witness to the Omani civilisation throughout the ages.
Amjad bin Ahmed al Makhladi, Director of Restoration and Maintenance at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said that the restoration process comes based on the original role played by the ministry to preserve the Omani architectural and archaeological heritage for its sustainability for future generations and to be an important tourist element.
He added that in 2022, about 83 castles, forts, walls, 145 towers, 80 mosques and two ancient houses had been restored, while the inventory process resulted in the registration of 3,423 archaeological sites.
Al Makhladi indicated that the restoration process depends primarily on studying the percentage of damages in the archaeological site and its historical importance, and aligning that with the ministry’s budget allocated for restoration.
He pointed out that one of the most important aspects that are taken into account in the restoration of monuments and historical sites is the architectural and historical value of the archaeological landmark, its geographical location and the proposed use of the landmark, taking into account not changing its basic plan and protecting and preserving the original building material without tampering with artwork such as decorations.
He said the ministry was keen to pay attention to the archaeological monuments owned by the people, by supporting their efforts to restore and maintain these monuments, whether through technical supervision or by providing them with restoration materials according to the importance of the landmark, its condition, and the purpose of its restoration, in coordination with the owners of such requests.
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