Archeological material of the Ministry’s internet site

Sohar site:

Several surveys and excavations were conducted in the Wilayat of Sohar. They covered Sohar castle and its surroundings. These excavations led to finding sites which date back to 1000 BC and a settlement which is 1.80 meter above sea level. Remains of a wall dating to the 1000 BC was found giving a hint that the site has continued to grow and prosper.

Archeological findings have proved that Sohar used to be an active commercial centre at that time. Traders` stamps and well manufactured red pottery were found at the site, as well as Chinese porcelain which was discovered in the strata dating back to the first centuries of Islam which has stressed that trading with China continued to develop until the mid of 13th
century AD.

The 14th century AD trade declined in Sohar. This was demonstrated by the absence of imported pottery items and the poor foundations of some housed found, contrary to the prosperity period during which some houses were built of bricks.

The decline in Sohar trade was attributed to the greediness of Hurmuz kings in Southern Iran to dominate the coastal areas and consequently navigation and trade between the Gulf and Far east cities, in order to collect taxes from trade revenues which continued to increase. The kings of Hurmuz ordered the construction of Sohar fort to commercially besiege the city whose inhabitants have deserted it and became a small town. The economic recession continued until the 16th century AD.

The findings included Islamic, burnished and non- burnished pottery which was imported from the near east, as well as small jars, pottery made utensil, glass pieces, a ceramic statute in the shape of a knight on a dragon, small pottery jars consisting of sulfur substance which was used in fighting invading ships, several pieces of Chinese porcelain and silver coins dating to the
Sasanic and Islamic periods.
 

Coins of al-Multaqa site in Sohar