Oman's Incense Empire: Frankincense and the Land of Punt

Long before oil, Oman was the world's only source of premium frankincense, a luxury that fueled empires from Rome to Han China. This episode traces the ancient trade routes from the Dhofar mountains, where the Boswellia sacra tree grows, to the temples of Thebes and the markets of Babylon. We explore the mysterious Land of Punt, where Egyptian pharaohs sent expeditions for myrrh and incense, and how Omani merchants managed the monopoly. Discover the Sumhuram archaeological site, the lost port of Moscha, and the frankincense highway that made southern Arabia the richest corner of the ancient world. Lucas and Luna discuss the Pliny quote that scandalized Rome, the role of the Himyarite and Sabaean kingdoms, and the botanical secrets of the resin. A story of desert caravans, monsoon winds, and a fragrance that built civilizations. #Frankincense #Dhofar #LandOfPunt #BoswelliaSaccharum #Sumhuram #KhorRori #Moscha #PlinyTheElder #Himyarite #Sabaean #AncientOman #IncenseTrade #AncientEgypt #Babylon #RomanLuxury #History #FexingoHistory #MaritimeHistory #OmanHistory #OmaniEmpire Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo