The Dead Sea, also known as the Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It’s a hypersaline lake that is truly one of Earth’s unique places. Not only is it the saltiest body of water in the world, but it is also the lowest place on the entire globe, and one of the only bodies of water you can freely float in! Here are 10 amazing facts about this unique place, as well as a video showing what's it like to float in the dead sea. |
1. The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are 423 metres (1,388 ft) below sea level, making it Earth’s lowest elevation on land. |
2. The Dead Sea is 377 m (1,237 ft) deep, making it the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. A hypersaline lake is a landlocked body of water that contains significant concentrations of sodium chloride or other mineral salts, with saline levels surpassing that of ocean water. |
3. With 33.7% salinity, the Dead Sea is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water. Although Lake Assal (Djibouti), Garabogazköl and some hypersaline lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica (such as Don Juan Pond) have reported higher salinities. |
4. The Dead Sea’s unusually high salt concentration means that people can easily float in the Dead Sea due to natural buoyancy. In this respect the Dead Sea is similar to the Great Salt Lake in Utah in the United States. |
5. The Dead Sea is roughly 8.6 times saltier than the ocean. This salinity makes for a harsh environment in which animals cannot flourish (hence its name). The high salinity prevents macroscopic aquatic organisms such as fish and aquatic plants from living in it, though minuscule quantities of bacteria and microbial fungi are present. |
6. The Dead Sea is 67 kilometres (42 mi) long and 18 kilometres (11 mi) wide at its widest point. It lies in the Jordan Rift Valley and its main tributary is the Jordan River. |
7. The Dead Sea area has become a major center for health research and treatment for several reasons. The mineral content of the water, the very low content of pollens and other allergens in the atmosphere, the reduced ultraviolet component of solar radiation, and the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth each have specific health effects. |
8. Biblically, the Dead Sea was a place of refuge for King David. It was one of the world’s first health resorts (for Herod the Great), and it has been the supplier of a wide variety of products, from balms for Egyptian mummification to potash for fertilizers. |
9. An unusual feature of the Dead Sea is its discharge of asphalt. From deep seeps, the Dead Sea constantly spits up small pebbles and blocks of the black substance. Asphalt coated figurines and bitumen coated Neolithic skulls from archaeological sites have been found. Egyptian mummification processes used asphalt imported from the Dead Sea region. |
10. The world’s lowest road, Highway 90, runs along the Israeli and West Bank shores of the Dead Sea at 393 m (1,289 ft) below sea level. |
How Travels Affect Students’ Cultural Perception After College
In an increasingly interconnected world, travel has become more than just a means of leisure; it’s a significant educational experience, especially for students.
The Step that Takes You to Another Place.
Passing from one country to another can be quite the experience.
Introducing the 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World
So where are the biggest and most expensive malls in the world? Right here in this article.
These Things Will All Happen in the Next 24 Hours
The world is incredibly busy, and doesn't stop moving for anyone. Millions of things happen every second but these 19 things will happen over the next 24 hours.
10 Great Buildings that Serve No Purpose!
a collection of buildings that are famously considered as follies
These 10 Super Island Cities Float Like Brilliant Boats
Some of the greatest cities in the world are actually like magnificent boats. They are islands of civilization and wonder floating in the world's seas.
Weird Architecture: 12 Really Unusual Buildings
From a building that sings in the rain to one that looks like a pair of dancers, these weird and wonderful structures are sure to blow your mind.
Everyone Should Visit These Gorgeous Romanian Castles
We have curated a list of the top nine most remarkable castles and fortresses in Romania and their fascinating histories.
Zalipie: The Beautifully Painted Village of Flowers
The small village of Zalipie can be found at a remote area of South Poland. But to those who make the effort to get there the trip is well worth it, because this village contains quite the surprise between its walls...
19 Timeless Treasures of Our World You Need to See
Uncover the world's most captivating and awe-inspiring creations through the lens of history, archaeology, art, and architecture.
This is How to Best Pack a Suitcase When Going Abroad
Getting ready for a trip can be a real pain, especially when it comes to packing and taking care of your clothes. Thankfully, this video is here to help!
These Islands Are Quite Simply the World's Most Magical
The world is home to many beautiful islands, but only some can truly be called magical. Here are 12 of the most magical islands in the entire world.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia's Secret Eden
One of the most incredible nature reserves in the world, Croatia's Plitvice Lakes National Park is a wondrous place.
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
One Look at These Photos & You'll Fall in Love With Seoul!
Take a close look at these photos and you'll find it very hard not to fall in love with this beautiful Korean city.
15 Common Geography Facts That Are Actually Wrong!
Here are 15 common errors about the world that often leave geography teachers in tears...
11 Unique Museums to Visit in the City of Prague
we've compiled a list of the top 11 must-visit museums in Prague!
10 Caves in the US You Have To Add to Your Must Visit List
These magical caves are a must see - weather you're an extreme lover or just looking for a relaxed stroll, these natural wonders have something for anyone.
13 Unmissable Sights in the Exotic City of Baku
To ensure you make the most of your trip to Baku, we have compiled a short guide of 13 must-see attractions.
The Mysterious Ajanta Caves are Full of Wonder...
The mysterious Ajanta Caves are full of incredible history and astonishing sights.
These Are 7 of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World
These must-see gardens from all over are among the most beautiful in the world.
The Tiniest Marvels: Enter Willard Wigan's Miniature World
Enter the fascinating world of Willard Wigan, the master of micro-sculpting.
Come See the Architectural Wonders of Valencia
We're inviting you to a beautiful tour of one of the most interesting cities in the world, as well as one of the most beautiful.
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
Visit 9 of the Most Unusual Towns in the World
A village of Dwarves? A city covered in trash? a whole town underground? These strange places will amaze you!
18 Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites to See in Italy
Apart from well-known attractions like the Colosseum, Pompeii, Rome, Venice, and Florence, there are 18 impressive locations that showcase a captivating blend of natural landscapes and ancient architectural wonders.
I Bet You've Never Heard of These 20 Picturesque Towns
These 20 hidden towns of Europe are beautiful! Almost nobody knows about these stunning locations and I can't figure out why.
5 Tips to Protect Yourself Against Thieves and Pickpockets
How to frustrate pickpockets and avoid getting robbed of your money and valuables abroad.
All Aboard the World's Most Exotic Trains
Discover the world's most opulent and exclusive train journeys that offer the ultimate in comfort, style, and breathtaking views.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
Indonesia is an Island Paradise With Many Hidden Charms
Explore the culture and natural beauty of Indonesia with this immersive travel guide.
15 Unbelievable Sights to See in Fairy Tale Germany!
In my humble opinion the Germans have far more stunning locations than any of their European neighbors. Look at these fabulous photos of the great wonderland.
7 Gorgeous Dutch Parks We Recommend You Visit!
we have compiled a list of the top 7 national parks in Holland that should not be missed!
The Most Fascinating Archaeological Finds in Recent Years
These recent archaeological discoveries left us awestruck.
Fascinating! Never-Before-Seen Images of the Titanic
Explore the Titanic like you've never seen it before with these rare photos.
The Australian Island of Tasmania Is Out of This World...
Many choose to visit to Australia at least once in their lifetimes, but the island of Tasmania is much less well-known. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
12 Gifts Mother Nature Gave the World...
12 incredible places that are hard to believe are real.
Georgia Is the Most Beautiful Country You’ve Never Been To
The sights and attractions of the Caucasian country of Georgia
Are These the Most Beautiful Streets in the World?
There's something so charming and beautiful about these streets that are surrounded by trees. Take a look at these stunning streets.
7 Cool Alleyways Where Street Art Takes Center Stage
In these cool alleyways, incredible artworks take the center stage.
These Unusual Beaches Offer a Unique View of Paradise
If you are a beach lover with an eye for the unusual, then you might want to add some of these stunning spots to your bucket list.
I've Never Seen Gardens as Beautiful as the Japanese Ones
These Japanese gardens will leave you just wishing for a calm walk in such a beautiful place.
Climb Aboard a Gondola For An Enchanting Venetian Ride...
Venice is an architectural and cultural treasure that is both part of Italy's and the wider world's heritage. Take a gondola ride through this beautiful city.
Welcome to the Coldest Town in the Whole World...
You think you know cold? For the people of Oymyakon in Russia, your idea of cold is laughable. When Amos Chappel, a photographer from New Zealand, traveled to this frozen location, he brought back incredible pictures depicting the daily lives of the
Would You Dare Enter These Haunted Castles?
These castles and mansions will give you the creeps!