Museum of the Frankincense Land is the only museum in Salalah, Oman. It’s an indoor museum with multiple halls, and variety of items on display. A frankincense tree lies in the middle of the museum.
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The Museum is in Al Balid Archeological Site
On the Eastern side of Al Baleed Archeological Park, an indoor air-conditioned museum is located. The museum is called “The Museum of the Frankincense Land” or “The Museum of the Land of Frankincense”.
The Only Museum in Salalah
Museum of the Land of Frankincense is the only museum in Salalah. In other words, it’s the only one in the southern side of Oman. However, there are some small display section in Taqa Castle, Mirbat Fort and Sumhuram. But these are not huge in numbers and don’t have a variety.
In conclusion, this is the only museum in Dhofar and around.
What’s in the Museum?
The museum hosts the following:
- Artifacts excavated from Al Baleed, Sumhuram and Ash Shisr, which are other UNESCO sites.
- Governorate of Dhofar’s historical and archaeological heritage.
- Superb models of Omani boats from 3000 BC to current.
Moreover, you can find other things and informative material inside the museum.
Halls Inside the Museum
There are two halls inside the Museum of the Frankincense Land – Maritime Hall and History Hall.
1. Maritime Hall
The first hall is Maritime Hall. It hosts beautifully crafted wooden models of Omani boats like Battil, Boom, Sambuq, Ghanjah, for instance.
In addition, this hall exhibits other items like navigational instruments and other similar things.
2. History Hall
The adjacent History Hall exhibits many historical items. Firstly, these are artifacts and are the ones excavated from the next door Al Baleed Archeological site. Moreover, these artifacts are also the ones unearth from other historical sites located at Sumhuram and Ubar. The artefacts comprises of pottery and metal work found in these ancient sites in Oman.
Secondly, this hall exhibits various models of mosques and tombs in Oman. This includes models of Tombs of Prophet Ayub, Prophet Hood, and Prophet Saleh and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, for instance.
Thirdly, you can find various colorful manuscripts of Holy Quran in the History Hall. Also, this hall displays other poetry and linguistic manuscripts.
In addition, one of the most important things in History Hall is the copy of letter sent by Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him) to the people of Oman. The letter is in Arabic and has seal of the Prophet. This letter was sent in 8th century.
Stay Near Museum of the Frankincense Land
1. Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers Villas with Private Pool. This resort at walking distance from the archeological site. Occupying a beachfront location, Al Baleed Resort is is the first luxury villa resort in Salalah.
Check best rates online at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
2. Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
A waterfront resort, Crowne Plaza Resort is one of the best places to stay in Salalah. Lush tropical garden surrounds the hotel building. Crowne Plaza has 153 rooms.
Check best rates online at Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah
Tourist Attractions Near Museum of the Frankincense Land
Since it is in the city, the museum is adjacent to other popular tourist attractions. Some of these attractions are as follows:
Opening Timing of Museum of the Frankincense Land
The site opens twice daily, with a small day break in the middle. Firstly, its open from 8 am to 2 pm. Secondly, from 4 pm to 8 pm. This opening hours is valid for all days of the week except on the weekend.
On Friday, archeological park opens at 4 pm and closes at 8 pm.
Entrance Fees
A nominal entrance fees applies. It includes entrance to Al Baleed Archeological Park, as well. Interestingly, the entrance charges are based on the type of vehicle like saloon car, 4WD, van, coaster, or bus.