Van, Lake

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VAN, LAKE

Salt lake in eastern Turkey.

Lake Van is the largest lake in Turkey, some 5,600 feet (1,600 m) above sea level, with a surface area of 1,400 square miles (3,700 sq. km). Having no outlet, its waters evaporate and concentrate salts, including carbonates and sulphates of soda; the resulting blue-green color creates a startling, austere beauty. Lake Van is stocked with darek, a herring-like fish consumed locally.


Bibliography


Fisher, Sydney N. The Middle East: A History, 3d edition. New York: Knopf, 1979.

john r. clark

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Lake Van

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