Sumhuram

Sumhuram is an archaeological site located in southern Oman, near the modern town of Taqah in the Dhofar Governorate. It is considered one of the most important sites related to the ancient incense trade. The ruins at Sumhuram, also known by its ancient name Sumhuram, date primarily to the Himyarite period, roughly from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Archaeological evidence suggests it was a thriving port city and a crucial hub for the frankincense trade, which was highly prized in the ancient world.

The site was first identified and excavated by a team led by the renowned archaeologist George F. Hourani in the early 1950s. Excavations have uncovered the remains of a fortified city, including a temple, residential areas, and a harbor. The layout of the city indicates it was strategically built to control trade routes. Artifacts found at Sumhuram, such as pottery and inscriptions, provide valuable insights into the economic and cultural connections of ancient southern Arabia with regions like Yemen, the Mediterranean, and India. The city's prosperity was intrinsically linked to its role in exporting frankincense, myrrh, and other valuable commodities.

Sumhuram is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized as part of the "Ancient Villages of Southern Oman" and the "Land of Frankincense." Its preservation and study continue to shed light on the sophisticated maritime and trade networks that flourished in this region in antiquity. The ruins are a testament to the historical significance of the incense trade and the role of cities like Sumhuram in its global reach.