This is the fourth of four itineraries written by Dubai based About Art Guest Contributor Rebecca Anne Proctor.
Located near the ancient city of Nizwa, once the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, the Oman Across Ages Museums is a 300,000-square-meter complex presenting the tale of the Gulf nation of Oman from prehistoric times until the present day. If you’re in the Gulf, Oman greatly deserves a visit. Its dramatic blend of untouched natural beauty, authentic Arabian culture and slower pace than its rapidly developing Gulf neighbors makes the country a gem—still largely undiscovered.
A visit to the new museum will unlock new narratives about the region pertaining from the unique country of Oman. The building itself is a sight to behold. Designed by Australian firmCOX Architecture, the building features sharp, geometric formsthat mimic the surrounding Hajar Mountains and seamlessly blends into the landscape. The museum, telling the tale of Oman’s rich civilizations and dynasties, is divided into 14 permanent, interactive galleries which guide visitors from the country’s prehistoric times to what is largely known as its modern Renaissance era post-1970. On show are over 5,500 artifacts in an immersive, high-tech environment offering interactive, digital storytelling that merge the country’s ancient past with its modern vision.
Situated in an area called Manah near the historic city of Nizwa, a trip to the museum offers the chance to also stop through Oman’s cultural heartland, visit the old souq and fort of Nizwa, eat some wonderful local cuisine and observe a quieter way of life in the Gulf. One trip to Oman, as I discovered years ago, is never enough. The museum offers a good base for an understanding of this gem of a country. I have no doubt the journey will encourage many returns.
