Sumhuram Archaeological site – The Old Port City at Khor Rori

Sumharam is an old port city is located on the small hill at the bank of creek water, Khor Rori area. This creek is located on the Eastern Side of Salalah City, after Taqa village as well.

The ruins dates back from 4th century BC to 4th Century AD, making them one of the oldest settlements in Oman.

Sumhuram is also spelled as Samharam, Samhuram, or Sumharam.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sumhuram is one of the sites listed in World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the year 2000, UNESCO listed the following sites, linked to the trade of Frankincense, in and around Salalah:

• Wubar Archaeological Site in Ash Shisr
• The Old City of Sumhuram at Khor Rori
• Al Baleed Archaeological Park
• Natural Reserve of Wadi Dawkah

The Ruins of Sumharam Old City

The excavation was carried out in 1996. The ruins are far less extensive than that at Al Baleed. But the excavation is very thorough and the restoration was done well. And significant archaeological and architectural remains have been discovered.

These remains include the following

• Fortifications
• Temples
• Residences
• Frankincense storage rooms
• Private and public buildings inside and outside the city wall

The Temple of Sin is one of the two excavated religious areas. This temple is located inside the city walls and is one of the most prominent buildings in the city. It is the worship place of the Mesopotamian moon god.

Objects Discovered in Sumharam

During excavation, many objects were discovered, including the following:

• Limestone inscriptions
• Incense burners
• Coral and shells used as oil lamps
• Pottery of various size, shape and material
• Mortar
• Basin for storing water
• Globular jar
• Handmill
• Fishing Tools
• Women Ornaments made of beads, shell and metal
• Coins

Opening Timing of Sumharam

Sumhuram Archeological site opens from 8 am to 8 pm everyday.

Entrance Fees

A nominal entrance fees applies. It includes entrance to the open air archaeological site, as well as the on-site indoor gallery.

Interestingly, the entrance charges are based on the type of vehicle like saloon car, 4WD, van, coaster, or bus. Saloon and 4WD entrance is 2 Rials Oman, while that for van is 20 Rials Omani. The entrance ticket for coaster and coach is 50 and 100 Omani Rials respectively.