Omani-French Museum, Muscat

The Omani French Museum, located in Old Muscat, symbolizes the longstanding relationship between Oman and France. Situated within the elegant white building known as Bait Faransa, once the residence of the French Consul, it was gifted by Sultan Faisal bin Turki to the French Consul in 1896, signifying the strong ties between the two nations.

Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman and the late French President François Mitterrand collaborated to transform this palace into a museum, officially opened on January 29, 1992. The museum aims to preserve and display the history of Omani-French relations through various artifacts, including photographs, documents, ship models, costumes, jewelry, and furniture.

Visitors can explore galleries depicting interactions between Oman and France, particularly focusing on the colonial era of the 19th century. Treasures include old photographs, maps, and even a detailed Paris map from the Sultan's state visit in 1989. Situated near Al Alam Palace in Muttrah State, the museum occupies a historic building approximately 170 years old, enhancing its cultural significance.

Exhibition spaces like the Hall of Maritime Navigation showcase models of ships, traditional costumes, and artifacts illustrating the cultural bonds between Oman and France. The museum stands as a testament to the enduring relationship, showcasing diverse displays from furniture to historical documents and photographs of early French diplomats.