Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman, through the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, has registered four historical monuments in the Arab Register of Architectural and Urban Heritage. These include Al Hamoudah Mosque in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, as well as the historic forts of Sohar and Nizwa and Al Shawadhna Mosque in the old community of Al Aqr in the Wilayat of Nizwa.
Oman registered while attending the 10th conference of the Observatory of Architectural and Urban Heritage in Arab States, which was held in the Lebanese Republic with the participation of numerous Arab countries.
The Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) supports the Observatory of Architectural and Urban Heritage. It emphasizes on documenting architectural and urban heritage in Arab nations, fostering collaboration in preservation and conservation operations, and enabling the exchange of knowledge. It also intends to develop coordinated laws to safeguard this legacy as an essential component of Arab cultural identity.
These four Omani monuments are featured to showcase regional appreciation for the Sultanate of Oman's work in heritage preservation and conservation. It also emphasizes the country's continuous attempts to exhibit its cultural and historical assets both locally and globally.
The Al Hamoudah Mosque, popularly known locally as the Domes Mosque in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali in the South A'Sharqiyah Governorate, is one of the governorate's oldest mosques. It is recognized for its classical architectural design, which captures the spirit of Omani Islamic architecture.
The registration of Sohar and Nizwa Forts is a substantial addition. Sohar Fort, situated in the North Al Batinah Governorate, is one of Oman's oldest coastal fortifications that has served as an important administrative and political hub at various times.
Nizwa Fort in the A'Dakhiliyah Governorate is a noteworthy representation of Omani defensive design. It served as a center for knowledge and administration in several historical periods and is still one of the most iconic cultural and tourist places in the Wilayat of Nizwa now.
Al Shawadhna Mosque, located in the old hamlet of Al Aqr in the Wilayat of Nizwa (A'Dakhiliyah Governorate), is famous for its gorgeous gypsum mihrab and elaborate architectural details, which are typical of traditional Omani religious architecture.
Preserving historical legacy is a crucial component of sustainable development and national identity consolidation. This genuine cultural heritage promotes cultural tourism and bolsters Oman's reputation as a destination that combines authenticity with modernity, improving the country's local, regional, and worldwide position.
