Lake Sevan, the Emerald of Armenia

Lake Sevan is often called the 'emerald of Armenia'. It constantly changes its colour - from sky blue to turquoise green. In ancient times it was called the Geghama Lich. Lake Sevan is located at an altitude of 1,900 meters above the sea level. Its maximum depth is 99 meters. It is a freshwater lake. In fact, it is the highest among the freshwater lakes in the world. The Hrazdan River flows out of it.

 There is a peninsula stretching into the lake. One of the most interesting sights on the rocky peninsula is the Sevan monastery founded in 874 by King Ashot I. Before the lake began to shrink, the peninsula was an island and the water of the lake saved the monastery on many occasions from the attacks of enemies.

The sea fauna of Lake Sevan is unique with a rare species of trout called ishkhan (meaning 'prince'). Gourrnands say the fish is especially tasty if it is cooked in the water from the lake.

 Lake Sevan is a favourite spot with both the local people and tourists. There are a great number of resorts, hotels, motels and comfortable beaches here. Today most of the beaches are privatized and equipped with all kinds of facilities for holiday-makers. There are sandy beaches with umbrellas, chaise longues, showers, etc. People enjoy going to Lake Sevan in hot summer weather to swim, sunbathe or get a tan. They can ride a pedal boat, take a trip on the lake on a yacht, a motor boat or a pleasure boat. Among the holiday-makers there are enthusiasts who fish on the beach and then have a picnic on the shore. Those who don't fish enjoy the food they have brought with them - usually sandwiches, or they buy food in the cafes and small restaurants located on the beach.

However, one should be careful not to stay long in the sun as the ultraviolet rays are especially strong here. You should stay under an umbrella and even cover your shoulders from the broiling sun as you may get sunstroke or get sunburnt.

Today, the existence of Lake Sevan has been imperiled. The water has receded several kilometers from its shores over the past 50 years. One of the reasons is the existence of hydroelectric stations on the lake that pump out much water. The water is used for irrigation and drinking. If we lose the lake we shall lose the wonderful creation of nature. Also we shall face the problem of drinking water shortage and other ecological problems. The Armenian government has taken steps to preserve Lake Sevan for future generations.

The receding water of the lake revealed many surprises for archaeologists and historians, who discovered ancient rock drawings made by primitive men, household utensils, weapons and war chariots from Urartu times. All these discoveries can be seen in the History Museum in Yerevan.