Oman's Bronze Age Towers: More Than Just Fortifications, Study Reveals

A new book, 'Landmarks of Identity', by Prof. Stephanie Dopper, reinterprets the function of Oman's Bronze Age towers, dating back to the third millennium BC. Initially perceived as watchtowers, research indicates they served as hubs for long-distance trade, copper production centers, and social spaces. The term 'tower' is now considered misleading, as these structures were likely raised platforms, some linked to copper processing or water management systems. Al Khashbah (Building V) in Al Mudhaibi, one of the oldest, shows evidence of copper working. Dopper's work, supported by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT), aims to highlight Oman's archaeological significance and inspire further research. She is currently researching an Early Bronze Age tomb in Al Musalla, Al Sharqiyah North Governorate.