Oman showcases archaeological research at 59th Seminar for Arabian Studies in Italy

Bologna: Oman highlighted its rich archaeological heritage and ongoing research at the 59th Seminar for Arabian Studies, which concluded on Saturday at the University of Bologna in Italy, with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism serving as the official sponsor of the event's main sessions and activities.

Held from July 30 to August 1, the seminar featured around 100 research reports, discoveries, and specialised studies on the history and archaeology of the Arabian Peninsula. Among them were 28 scientific papers focused on Omani archaeological research, presented by archaeologists and researchers from international missions conducting surveys and excavations across archaeological sites in the Sultanate.

The opening session included an address by Tommaso d'Errico, Honorary Consul of Oman for the Italian regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, who highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Oman’s archaeological and architectural heritage. He also underscored the important role of Omani castles and forts throughout history and the Sultanate’s continued efforts to support archaeological research and preserve its cultural heritage.

A special feature of the event was the screening of the Golden Jubilee documentary celebrating the Journal of Omani Studies, the Sultanate’s peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to cultural and natural heritage. First published in 1975, the journal has become one of Oman’s leading scholarly publications in archaeology and heritage studies.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism also organised an exhibition showcasing its latest scientific publications, including the Omani Archaeological Heritage Series, the Journal of Omani Studies, and the Athar bulletin, which documents archaeological surveys, excavation findings, and annual fieldwork carried out across Oman.

The exhibition further promoted Oman’s cultural tourism attractions, supported by the Ministry’s tourism representation office in the Italian market, highlighting the country’s heritage destinations to an international audience.

First launched in 1968, the Seminar for Arabian Studies is one of the world's leading academic forums dedicated to the history, archaeology, languages, and cultures of the Arabian Peninsula. It serves as a platform for presenting the latest discoveries and fostering collaboration among researchers, universities, international organisations, and government institutions involved in Arabian studies.