'The secret sea of the East': Lake Hazar in Turkey's Elazığ province

In eastern Elazığ's district of Sivrice, about 26 kilometers (16 miles) from the city center, lies Lake Hazar, a rift lake created by tectonic shifts. The region attracts holidaymakers coming to enjoy its unique scenery, natural beauty and tourist facilities.

Many activities are offered at the lake, including several water sports and opportunities to hike at an elevation of 1,250 meters (4,101 feet) above sea level. The lake's shoreline stretches 56 kilometers (34.8 miles) between Mount Hazarbaba and Mastar, and is ideal for those who enjoy lounging on sandy beaches.

Beneath the lake's surface lurks a mysterious 4,000-year-old underwater city, which is thought to have been submerged since 1830. The Turkish Tourism and Culture Ministry is working to register this historic "Sunken City" on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Read more here.

Dubbed "the secret sea of the East," the lake was formerly known as Lake Geoljuk and is one of the notable sources of the Tigris River.