Salalah: The Omani government’s efforts to preserve the country’s rich heritage around frankincense, as well as promote the cultural legacy behind it, has been lauded by a leading Middle East based scholar and archaeologist.
Professor William Zimmerle, Senior Lecturer at the Ancient World Program & Heritage Program at NYU Abu Dhabi, also credited the people of Dhofar for nurturing frankincense’s vibrant legacy.
Speaking to the Observer on the sidelines of the launch of the Frankincense Season in Dhofar, the expert remarked: I’ve just spent the evening here at the Museum of the Land of Frankincense and it has been spectacular. This is a real testimony to the legacy of Dhofari people, who have been here doing extraordinary work and keeping and preserving frankincense as its heritage, the heritage of its people, and the particular outstanding value of frankincense for the global community.”
He elaborated on the significance of frankincense, noting that it’s “something that has gone out from Dhofar to the rest of the world, and we’re grateful for this long heritage legacy that Dhofari people are keepers of this heritage past.” Prof Zimmerle also highlighted the importance of preserving the traditional craft of frankincense burners, known as Majmars. He mentioned a previous research project conducted in collaboration with the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center in Washington, DC, and the Majmarah, which resulted in a book on the craft production of incense burners.
He emphasised the need to continue preserving this craft in its authentic form while also exploring ways to adapt it for educational and creative purposes. “This, as we say in heritage studies, is we need to use it so we don’t lose it,” he explained. “And so as long as we keep using the phrase and outsiders using Luban using incense burners, we keep that heritage ongoing and we keep that heritage alive.”
Prof Zimmerle expressed his appreciation for Oman’s dedication to heritage preservation, particularly its role in developing museums. He commended the Sultan Qaboos University Cultural Centre for its efforts and acknowledged the leadership of Ali Khaturia, the museum director.
He encouraged the government to continue prioritising heritage preservation, particularly in Dhofar, given its wealth of heritage sites and cultural value. “I hope in the future the government continues to focus on Dhofar because of the incredible number of heritage sites and value that’s here to continue to put that forefront to support projects, to support research, both financially but also in developing local students,” he asserted.
Prof Zimmerle concluded by reiterating his belief in Oman’s commitment to heritage and expressed his hope that the government will continue to prioritise heritage preservation. “I think Oman is definitely on the right track,” he affirmed. “And I just encourage the ministries and the government to continue to push forward to make heritage first and its priorities.”
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