Bologna, Italy – The 59th Seminar for Arabian Studies concluded at the University of Bologna on Saturday, with Oman presenting 28 research papers on archaeological surveys, excavations and heritage studies.

The three-day event, which began on July 30, was supported by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism as the official sponsor of its main sessions and activities.

Around 100 reports, findings and academic studies on the history and archaeology of the Arabian Peninsula were presented during the seminar. The Omani papers were delivered by archaeologists and researchers from scientific missions working at sites across the sultanate.

In the opening session, Dr Tommaso d’Errico, Honorary Consul of Oman in Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, highlighted the historical and cultural value of Omani archaeological and architectural heritage.

He also addressed the role played by Oman’s castles and forts across different periods and reviewed the country’s efforts to support archaeological research and preserve cultural heritage.

The programme included a screening of a film marking the golden jubilee of the Journal of Oman Studies, a peer-reviewed publication specialising in the sultanate’s cultural and natural heritage. The journal published its first issue in 1975.

The ministry also set up a display featuring its latest scientific publications, including the Omani Archaeological Heritage Series, the Journal of Oman Studies and the Athar bulletin, which documents the findings of archaeological surveys and excavations.

Other publications outlined the work of archaeological missions at sites across Oman.

The display also promoted the sultanate’s cultural tourism assets, with participation from the ministry’s tourism representation office in Italy.

First held in 1968, the Seminar for Arabian Studies provides a platform for new research and discoveries relating to the Arabian Peninsula. It brings together researchers, academic institutions, international organisations and government bodies to exchange expertise and strengthen scientific cooperation.