There’s a good chance you’re aware of what the Dead Sea is and where it’s located, but for many people, that’s where their knowledge pretty much ends. The Dead Sea is actually something that can seem really exotic and mysterious to many, as there are so many facts that aren’t necessarily common knowledge. The Dead Sea is bordered by Jorden and Israel and holds all kinds of incredible facts, as well as some pretty amazing health benefits, which is a big part of why it’s such a huge tourist draw.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to the Dead Sea or you’d just like to learn more about it, here are five things that you may not know about the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea Isn’t a Sea at All
Despite being called the Dead Sea, this body of water isn’t a sea at all. Instead, the Dead Sea is a saltwater lake. With that said, it is the deepest saltwater lake in the entire world. At its deepest, it is 1004 feet. It gets even more interesting if you measure the sea’s depth in relation to the planet’s sea level. When you take that into account, the water surface and shores are actually 1,401 feet below sea level.
The Dead Sea Is Extremely Salty
Many realize that the Dead Sea is salty, but did you know that it’s actually among the saltiest lakes on the entire planet? When measuring its salt content, it contains 33.7% salt. There are a small handful of lakes saltier though, with Don Juan Pont in the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica being the saltiest at 44%.
You Won’t Find Life Forms in the Lake
Unlike many of the lakes on the earth’s surface, the Dead Sea doesn’t contain life. The problem is the salt level in the lake, which makes it too high for anything to live in there. From time to time during the rainy season, it can be possible that bacteria are able to grow, but that’s it.
It’s Not Your Average “Beach”
When you think of a sea or lake it’s common to also think about the beach or shoreline. This brings us to more interesting Dead Sea facts – the shoreline is actually covered in white crystals that are salt. It’s really quite a stunning sight to behold as it also captures and reflects the sunlight in the most beautiful way.
It Has Become a Big Destination for Health Tourism
Health tourism is still a relatively new branch of tourism, but the Dead Sea is one area that is extremely popular with health tourists. The salt is well known for its variety of health benefits, which can include helping to reduce dandruff, stress, pain, muscle aches, hives, psoriasis, acne, and more.
One of the Most Intriguing Lakes to Visit
If you’re looking for an exotic and truly spectacular place to visit on your next holiday, the Dead Sea is one of the most intriguing lakes, and locations, out there.