Oman’s rich heritage comes alive in Vilnius photography exhibition
The photography exhibition by Turkish photographer Ali Akkaya in Lithuania, is being showcased at the Gallery of the Lithuanian National Commission for Unesco
Times News Service
MUSCAT: A photography exhibition shedding light on the Sultanate’s history, rich heritage and achievements in various spheres during the blessed era of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said kicked off in Vilnius recently. The exhibition will continue until June 14.
Honorary Consul of the Sultanate of Oman Boleta Senkienė said: “The photography exhibition, ‘The Charm of Omani Traditions’, by Turkish photographer Ali Akkaya in Lithuania, is being showcased at the Gallery of the Lithuanian National Commission for Unesco. Inspired by the culture and hospitality of the Omani people, the author shares his impressions from the centuries-old traditional camel and horse races, as well as livestock markets in Oman, which he attended during the period of Eid Al Adha last year.”
The exhibition was attended by Senkienė, who introduced the audience to the culture, traditions and history of Oman, openness and hospitality of the Omani people, as well as the friendly relationship between Lithuania and Oman.
Traditional events
The opening ceremony continued with a presentation by Akkaya, who shared information and videos on traditional events he observed in Oman (camel and horse races, cattle markets, Al-Razfa and Shuwaa).
The exhibition focuses on traditional camel and horse races, as they are under consideration by Unesco for the eventual inscription to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In addition to races, moments from the cattle market in Nizwa on the last Friday before Eid AlAdha were also presented at the exhibition.
Omani dates and coffee
Finally, the guests were treated to Omani dates and coffee provided by the Honorary Consul of Oman. The opening event, combined with Omani snacks and the smell of frankincense, ensured everyone felt the real spirit of Oman in Lithuania.
“Anyone visiting Lithuania during this period is welcome to visit the exhibition at the Gallery of the Lithuanian National Commission for Unesco,” she said.