(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Muscat- An Omani national in Sur has converted a part of his old family house into museum hosting ancient ship models and more than 100 handmade pieces which refer to the wilayat's maritime history.
Speaking toMuscat Daily
, Thani bin Sabit Rabia al Ghailani, 47, the founder of Aiham museum, said that it has become a tourist and cultural destination in Sur's Al Shabia area.
'I was always passionate about preserving the heritage of the country. I inherited some artefacts from my father and grandfather such as weapons, daggers, pottery, copper pots and old building equipment.'
Ghailani said that the museum came up in 2001 reflecting the maritime history of the wilayat of Sur. 'I have collected more than 100 pieces some dating back more than 50 years. The museum aims to preserve the archaeological heritage left by our ancestors for the future generation. It has daggers, old weapons, shipbuilding tools, woodwork, old copper tools and wooden doors. The museum has a piece in the centre which was used to raise sails of the ship. Many of my friends have donated items to the museum.
'It is not easy to collect such antiques. It needs a lot of time, dedication and money. A lot of owners do not like to part with their valuables easily and need a lot of convincing. But, the end result is worth all the effort.'
Ghailani said that every weekend people from different wilayats, my friends and family members come to visit my museum and take pictures of the items on display. 'For them, it is a memory that they capture and treasure for life. I hope that the Ministry of Heritage and Culture gives me permission to open the museum for tourists.
'I hope they set up a public museum in future so that it can attract domestic and international tourists and showcase the beauty and heritage of my country. I wish to spread awareness among young people to preserve the marine environment and artefacts.'
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