MUSCAT, JAN 19
Rare findings, including a collection of beads and bone fragments, along with inscriptions in South Arabian script and rock carvings, have been unearthed during archaeological surveys and excavations at Wadi Tanuf in the Wilayat of Nizwa, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT).
The ministry, in cooperation with Japanese archaeological missions from the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, has been carrying out excavations at the site since 2018. The latest discoveries mark a major milestone in ongoing efforts to uncover remnants of ancient settlements and enrich Oman’s national heritage inventory.
The findings were announced at a lecture titled 'Recent Archaeological Discoveries in Wadi Tanuf', presented by Japanese professor and geologist Dr Kondo Yasuhisa, who has been leading archaeological excavations of historic settlements in Musandam Governorate and Tanuf in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The lecture reviewed the most significant results of the surveys and their implications for understanding the region’s cultural and landscape history.
“The new discoveries enrich our understanding of the region’s heritage, traditions, culture and lifestyles of a bygone era. Oman has immense archaeological potential, which can be strongly integrated with tourism. It has the capacity to become a regional hub for archaeology, sustainable tourism and cultural tourism,” Dr Kondo said.
He stressed the importance of publishing and publicising the results of years-long excavations to raise awareness of Oman’s rich cultural heritage and strengthen its global profile.
Prof Kondo, who has been actively involved in archaeological surveys in Arain in Tanuf, cave-side settlements in the Canyon area of Al Dakhiliyah and sites in Musandam, was recently conferred with the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations through archaeology over the past 17 years.
The ongoing archaeological surveys are being conducted in cooperation with the MoHT and the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, with financial support from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).
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