When tourists ask which sea is washing Armenia, geographical maps give the only correct answer: this Caucasian republic has no outlet to the sea. The territory of Armenia can only boast of Lake Sevan, which the locals love and revered, and therefore it means no less in the life of Armenians than if it were the sea.
National treasure
Lake Sevan is the largest in the Caucasus, and it is also one of the largest alpine lakes in the world:
- Sevan is located at an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level.
- Its mirror area is over 1200 sq. km, which allows the Armenians to proudly call it their sea.
- The maximum depth mark is fixed at 80 meters.
- 28 rivers flow into the fresh sea of Armenia, feeding Sevan and maintaining its water level. Only the Hrazdan River flows out of the lake.
- Lake Sevan is the largest and most guaranteed source of fresh water in the Caucasus.
The national park of the same name has been created on the shores of the largest lake in Armenia. Its name comes from the word translated from the ancient language of the Urartu people as "lake". The Armenians have laid down many legends about the origin of their main reservoir, which they willingly tell guests.
The main attraction and wealth of Sevan is its famous ishkhan trout, which can be enjoyed in local restaurants. This type of fish is endemic, that is, not found in other bodies of water. Populations of Armenian seagulls are protected in the reserve on the shore, and swans and dives stopping at the lake are the subject of observation of both scientists and guests of Lake Sevan.
Another local attraction is the ancient monastery of Sevanavank, which is located on a former island that has turned into a peninsula due to a decrease in the water level. Founded in the 9th century, the monastery is a national symbol of Armenia and one of the most famous architectural relics. On the banks of Sevan there are hundreds of famous khachkars - ancient stone steles with the image of a cross.
What are the seas in Armenia?
And yet this question, regardless of the information on the globe, can be answered - different! In Armenia, the traveler is expected by seas of hospitality, cordiality and unique monuments of history and culture. And on the ancient land on Lake Sevan, guests will have to swim in the sea of heat, which the Caucasian sun gives to everyone who decides to see the snow cap of Ararat.
