The ancient city of Sumhuram in the Sultanate of Oman

The historical city of Samharam has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since the year 2000, thanks to its rich history and archaeological remains dating back to before 200 BCE. To emphasize the significance of this archaeological site, a visual display has been opened to showcase its history through audio and visual presentations.

Location of Samharam in Oman:

Samharam is located in the city of Taqah, which is approximately 30 km away from Salalah in the Dhofar Governorate of Oman.

Meaning of the Name "Samharam" and Its Origin:

The word "Samharam" means "High Name" or "Great Plain." There are some accounts that suggest the name originated from an ancient Arabian tribe that left its name inscribed on the city's gate.

Key Contents of Samharam:

Samharam boasts numerous archaeological sites and rock inscriptions written in Arabic dating back to various periods. A geological team discovered sedimentary deposits and teeth of extinct animals dating back 35 million years in this area. Additionally, Samharam is home to the ancient port known as Samharam Port or locally called "Khor Rori," which was an essential hub for the export of frankincense to the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis). It served as a vital trade port connecting the East and the Mediterranean Sea during the time of the Hadramawt, Greeks, and Romans. The historic port of Samharam, Khor Rori, stands as one of the most significant archaeological landmarks in the city.