GLOBE

The dead sea

Part I

The Dead Sea has been celebrated as one of nature’s miracles. Underneath its tranquil and relaxing waters lies an astounding treasure of life-enhancing minerals, because thousands of years of evaporation only served to increase and enrich the level of minerals in the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea is a geological phenomenon considered the lowest place on Earth. Ancient layers of mineral rich earth were exposed, and salt water springs erupted to form a valley containing the closed Dead Sea lake 1317 ft or 417meters below sea level. Down to about 130 ft or 40 meters, the seawater comprises about 300 grams of salt per kilogram of seawater. That’s about ten times the salinity of the oceans. Below 300 feet, though, the sea has 332 grams of salt per kilogram of seawater and is saturated. Salt precipitates out and piles up on the bottom of the sea.
Recognized as a mini-universe with its own micro-climate, the Dead Sea is the saltiest and most mineral-laden body of water in the world. The unparalleled buoyancy and warmth of the water has everyone floating. Since ancient times, millions of people from all over the world have visited the Dead Sea to relax and enjoy its dry hot weather, and to experience the healing, beautifying and rejuvenating powers of its mud and waters.

Text and Photos: Pierre Virot

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