Lake Van

Lake Van (Turkish Van Gölü, in Armenian: ???? ???) is the largest lake in Turkey, located in the far east of the country. It is a saline lake of vulcanic origin with no outlet, receiving water from numerous small streams that descend from the surrounding mountains. The lake is 120 km long, 80 km wide, has an area of 3,755 km² and is located 1 719 metres above sea level.

Cultural history

The lake was in the centre of Urartian kingdom from about 1000 BC and capital of Urartu, Tushpa, was on the shore of Van (approximately on the site of Van city).

Related Topics:
Urartian kingdom - 1000 BC - Tushpa - Van city

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Later the land around lake was ruled by Armenians. Along with lake Sevan and lake Urmia Van was one of the three great lakes of the Armenian Kingdom, referred to as the seas of Armenia. On several islands in the lake, remains of Armenian churches and monesteries can be found. The best preserved are of a church of the Holy Cross from tenth century located on Akdamar Island and of monastery from eleventh centry on Arter.

Related Topics:
Sevan - Lake Urmia - Armenia - Akdamar Island - Arter

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Other important sights were created by Kurdish rulers of the area, such as Van Kalesi (castle) on the eastern shore. The city of Van is located on the eastern shore of the lake.

Related Topics:
Kurd - Van Kalesi - Van

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