Dead Sea

About Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel to the west. At 430.5 meters (1,412 ft) below sea level, its shores are the lowest point on Earth on dry land. The Dead Sea is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean, making it one of the world's saltiest bodies of water and creating the famous natural phenomenon where people can float effortlessly. The mineral-rich mud and water have made it a renowned destination for health and wellness treatments.

Historical Context

The Dead Sea has a rich history stretching back thousands of years. In biblical times, it was known as the "Salt Sea" and the "Sea of Arabah," and was mentioned in relation to Abraham and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. King David reportedly found refuge in the area, and King Herod the Great established one of the world's first health resorts at Masada near its shores. The unique properties of the Dead Sea have been recognized since ancient times, with Egyptian Queen Cleopatra allegedly establishing cosmetic factories along its shores. In the Byzantine period, the area became an important source of agricultural products. The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in nearby Qumran between 1947 and 1956, represent one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century, containing some of the oldest known biblical texts. In modern times, the Dead Sea faces environmental challenges, as its water level has been dropping by about a meter per year due to water diversion from the Jordan River and mineral extraction operations. Today, efforts are underway to preserve this natural wonder, including potential water transfer projects from the Red Sea.