NIZWA: The fourth edition of the Izki Cultural Forum 2025, held this year under the theme “Our Harat Between Authenticity and Modernity", kicked off at the Oman Across Ages Museum on Monday.
The event aims to introduce the community and heritage enthusiasts to the historical and cultural identity of the Wilayat of Izki through a series of sessions bringing together historians, architects and cultural specialists.
The two-day forum opened with the symposium “Izki through history: History of Harat Izki... their heritage and paths for investment", under the auspices of Shaikh Hilal bin Said al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah.
The forum explored the rich culture of Harat Izki. It highlighted their historical roles, architectural characteristics, and opportunities to transform them into cultural and tourism assets that support sustainable development in the governorate.
Al Hajri said that hosting the forum at the Oman Across Ages Museum reflects the deep-rooted connection between Oman’s national identity and its history.
"The historic Harat Izki represents an important testimony to the memory of place and phases of Oman’s civilisation, stressing that documenting and investing in them aligns with Oman Vision 2040 in promoting cultural heritage as an economic contributor."
Younis bin Ali al Mandhari, Head of the Izki Cultural Centre and Chairman of the Organising Committee, said: "The symposium acts as a bridge between past and present, supporting efforts to revive historic Harat and employ them culturally, educationally and economically."
The first session featured several research papers, including “Harat Al Nizar and Its Civilisational Role” by researcher Ismail bin Ibrahim al Sarhani, who highlighted the neighbourhood’s significance in shaping religious, intellectual and political decision-making throughout different eras.
The opening ceremony also featured an exhibition showcasing historical photographs, aerial maps, artefacts, documents and manuscripts. The expo features photos and paintings from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, Oman Across Ages Museum, and the National Records and Archives Authority.
The exhibition offered visitors an immersive look into Izki’s rich heritage and the unique legacy preserved within its historic Harat for three days.
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