Nizwa’s round fort, ancient mosques, old neighbourhoods, and heritage souq bear witness to the march of history, which attracts tourists from around the world.
The Nizwa Museum offers another avenue for the visitors to set on journey to witness Oman’s heritage, culture and civilisation in different historical eras “This museum owns 3,000 pieces of which 2,000 artefacts are displayed in eight carefully selected halls,” said Mohamed Ambusaidi, the owner of the museum. These halls are dedicated to manuscripts, arms and armour, civilisation, copper, crafts, pottery and women.
All the archaeological collectibles that are displayed highlight the ability of the Omanis to harness natural resources for construction and these collectibles focus on introducing important details of the Omani tangible and intangible heritage.
“The museum’s vision aims to improve the heritage tourism in Oman in general and the city of Nizwa in particular. This museum also seeks to highlight the historical, civilisational and cultural role of Nizwa across ages,” Mohammed said.
As soon as one enters this museum, s/he is transported back to history. The main corridor of the museum is decorated with unique models of ancient Omani windows and doors with different engravings, colours and shapes. Among them is a door, which dates back more than 500 years.
The museum also displays one of the oldest ceramics and weapons, which are more than 700 years old. Among the oldest collections of this museum is a piece of petrified pinewood dating back to 260 million years. This museum also contains Omani manuscripts dating back more than 400 years, which offers glimpses of Oman’s political, economic and social history.
Mohammed explained that the aim of the museum is to serve as a link between the past and the present; preserve and restore cultural heritage.
“The museum project began with my hobby of collecting archaeological collectibles. For years, I have been moving from one place to another. I have visited most of the Omani cities and villages, travelled by land and sea, and communicated with dozens of people who helped me obtain these rare objects”.
“Practicing this hobby has never been easy. This is a financially expensive and physically exhausting hobby, and the research process requires long periods of time. But all that insomnia and fatigue that I suffered from for several years I do not feel today. Today I feel honoured and proud because I achieved what I dreamed of achieving.” This museum, which opened its doors November 2023, quickly attracted thousands of visitors thanks to community support and media marketing.
“I extend my sincere thanks to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, friends and specialists who helped me achieve this dream. This project will remain one of the pillars that contribute to introducing the elements of our heritage and protecting it from extinction.”
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