Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) restored 310 historical monuments and landmarks across several governorates in 2022.

Amjad al Makhladi, Director of Restoration and Maintenance at MHT, informed that the restoration work was in line with the ministry’s efforts to preserve Oman’s architectural heritage for future generations.

“Our restoration efforts are with the objective of making Oman’s architectural heritage an important attraction for tourists.”

According to Makhladi, one of the most important aspects taken into account in the restoration of any monument is the architectural and historical value of the landmark, its geographical location and the proposed use of the site.

It is also imperative not to change its basic structure, while protecting and preserving the original building material without tampering with artwork such as decorations.

Of the total monuments and landmarks restored in 2022, 83 are castles, forts and walls, 145 towers, 80 mosques and two ancient houses, Makhladi informed. Also, an inventory process resulted in the registration of 3,423 archaeological sites.

MHT has also completed a restoration project in Nakhal Fort, one of the most important historical monuments in the sultanate.

“The ministry followed a systematic plan in the restoration work, including comprehensive maintenance of all parts of the fort, while preserving the Omani character, identity and architectural elements by using traditional materials and using manual tools,” Makhladi said.

The number of historical sites rose to 22,259 in 2020 from 7,064 in 2016, a growth of 215 per cent, the National Centre for Statistics and Information said.