Heritage Ministry Inaugurates Meteorite Corner at Mandarin Oriental HotelMuscat,
28 Jul (ONA) — The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism launches the Meteorite
Corner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Muscat Governorate.

This
initiative aligns with the Ministry’s efforts to utilize geological heritage
and enhance the tourism and cultural experience in the Sultanate of Oman.

The
corner features a collection of rare meteorite samples from the “Jiddat Al
Harasis” strewn field, offering hotel guests a unique opportunity to view
them up close and learn about their history and scientific value. It also
highlights Oman’s commitment to preserving these meteorites as an important
cultural legacy.

Among
the exhibits is a distinctive sample from Jiddat al Harasis 091, which
represents the largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman to date. Its strewn
field extends approximately 52 kilometers, with over 700 collected pieces
totaling around 4,600 kilograms. Documented scientific studies indicate that
this fall at its original site occurred over 12,600 years ago.

The
corner also includes a meteorite sample from Jiddat al Harasis 073, classified
as an L6 chondrite stony meteorite. This is considered the second-largest
meteorite fall discovered in Oman so far. Scientific studies suggest that this
meteorite traveled through the asteroid belt in space, weighing over 20 tons,
and is estimated to have fallen at its original site 15,600 years ago, during
the Paleolithic era.

A
total of 3,638 pieces from this fall have been documented, with an aggregate
weight of 620.9 kilograms and a strewn field extending 25.8 kilometers. The
display of these meteorites aims to educate hotel guests, both local and
international, about the significance of meteorites, their scientific and
historical value, and the legal frameworks and legislations governing them
under the Cultural Heritage Law. This initiative emphasizes meteorites as
crucial evidence of the solar system’s formation, while also showcasing Oman’s
efforts in collecting, preserving, and studying meteorite samples.

This
pioneering initiative represents a step towards fostering more partnerships
between the government and private sectors to showcase Oman’s unique natural
treasures on diverse and modern platforms. It aligns with the country’s vision
to integrate culture and science into a comprehensive and holistic tourism
experience.

—Ends/AG