Sunday 15 / December / 2024
Muscat: In a significant advancement for Omani archaeology, groundbreaking research has unveiled major discoveries in the Western Part of the Ja’alan Region, offering unprecedented insights into the prehistoric communities that once thrived there.
Led by UNESCO World Heritage expert Professor Nasser Al Jahwari of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), the research sheds new light on the settlement history and societal development of this culturally influential part of Oman.
The findings, detailed in Professor Al Jahwari’s latest publication, “The Archaeological Landscape of the Western Part of Ja’alan Region, Sultanate of Oman,” highlight a series of remarkable discoveries, including early Bronze Age burials, intricate rock art, and triliths. These findings collectively paint a vivid picture of the daily life, rituals, and survival strategies of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
During the excavations, numerous burial sites were uncovered, providing valuable insights into the funerary practices and beliefs of prehistoric communities.
Also discovered were intricate carvings and drawings discovered at the sites, which offer a unique window into the artistic expressions and symbolic communications of early societies.
Triliths (megalithic structures) suggest advanced construction techniques and possibly served ceremonial or astronomical purposes.
Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage & Tourism, emphasised the importance of these discoveries. “Archaeological findings of this magnitude are rare and immensely valuable. Professor Al Jahwari’s work enriches our understanding of the lives and practices of our ancestors, enhancing our appreciation of Oman’s heritage,” he said.
He added: “The ministry is proud to add this outstanding book to our publication catalogue and urge academics, students, history enthusiasts and anyone interested in archaeology and anthropology to delve into its pages. Rich in insights and information, I am sure it will be of great interest to a broad readership.”
The research focused on areas around Jabal Qahwan and Wadi Al Batha, between Jalan Bani Bu Hassan and Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi. These sites have long been underexplored, making the revelations particularly significant.
The book documents extensive archaeological surveys and excavations conducted in the region, covering periods from the Stone Age through the Bronze and Iron Ages, and pre-Islamic and Islamic periods.
Al Jahwari, a distinguished UNESCO World Heritage expert, is a Professor in the Department of Archaeology at the College of Arts & Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University.
With over 30 years of experience, Al Jahwari specialises in field archaeology, landscape archaeology, and prehistory.
His research interests include settlement patterns over time, quantification in archaeology, ethnoarchaeology, and rock art. His expertise has garnered international recognition, including roles with ICOMOS and UNESCO World Heritage.
While the primary focus remains on the groundbreaking discoveries, the comprehensive details are meticulously documented in Al Jahwari’s new book.
The 300+ page volume, featuring 114 figures, pictures, and maps, as well as 76 statistical and illustrative tables, is available for purchase at the General Office (main building) of the Ministry of Heritage & Tourism.
These discoveries not only mark a significant milestone in Omani archaeology but also contribute to the broader understanding of human history in the region. The unveiling of these ancient secrets highlights the enduring legacy of Oman’s rich cultural heritage and underscores the importance of ongoing archaeological research in uncovering the stories of our past.
