Samhuram

The walled city of Samhuram (aka Khor Rori, Sumhuram, Samharam) was founded in the 1st century AD as a port for the frankincense trade. It lied on a hill overlooking a lagoon, which acted a natural harbour. The nearby wadi flowing into the sea was a source of fresh water. Samhuram was most active until the 4th century AD. The ruins of the city were rediscovered in the late 19th century. The first excavations were carried out in the 1950s by the American Foundation for the study of Man. Samhuram can be easily reached by car from Salalah (40km to the east). It has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 2000.