MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has unveiled the latest edition in the Omani Archaeological Heritage series, titled 'Identity Landmarks: Bronze Age Towers in the Omani Peninsula'. Written by Professor Stephanie Dupre, this book provides a unique exploration of nearly 100 Bronze Age towers dating back to the third millennium BC, offering new insights into their history, functions, and cultural significance.
The illustrated volume challenges previous beliefs about these structures, often seen as mere watchtowers or defensive fortifications. Through modern archaeological excavations, Dupre reveals that these towers served various purposes throughout ancient times. The book also delves into their construction, development, and repurposing over centuries, highlighting their role in Bronze Age activities, such as long-distance trade, large-scale copper production, and the emergence of monumental architecture.
Beyond being a scholarly reference, this work serves as a guide for both visitors and researchers, featuring maps, illustrations, and photographs that document the precise locations of each tower. The book also enriches our understanding of the region’s cultural traditions, linking them to broader historical processes.
Prof Stephanie, a specialist in Arabian Peninsula archaeology, draws from her extensive research and excavations in Oman to provide a comprehensive overview of these remarkable structures. This publication, the thirteenth in the Ministry’s archaeological series, is expected to become an essential resource for those interested in Oman’s ancient past and its rich cultural heritage.
'Identity Landmarks: Bronze Age Towers in the Omani Peninsula' is a significant contribution to the fields of archaeology and history, offering a fresh perspective on one of the region’s most important archaeological phenomena. - ONA
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