Lake Orumieh is one of the largest and permanent lakes of Iran and has characteristics of its own. This lake is located to the northwest of the province and stretches from north to south, thereby dividing this territory into two that is East Azarbayjan and West Azarbayjan. It is one of the most magnificent lakes of the world. It is saturated with salt which is said to help in treatment of some kinds of remedies. Regarding the size, depth, chemical composition, sedimentation, ecology, water currents and wild species, this lake bears special characteristics. Such that it has been recorded as a National Park by the Department of the Environment as well as internationally as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
number of ports have been set up along the coasts of the Lake Orumieh in order to transport passengers and cargo. The most important of these is the port of Sharaf Khaneh. The said is on the eastern coast of the lake within the limits of Shabestar. It has full port facilities including large warehouses. In the summer months the place swarms with visitors who come for leisure and therapeutic purposes, both by mineral springs and the "sludge" present in the region. The port of Aq Gonbad ia also another important port. The others namely, Rahmanloo, Danaloo, Qobadloo and Zeenatloo ports are on the eastern coast of the lake.
The Orumieh lake has about 102 islands both large and small. Five of these islands can be noted here such as the Islands of Islami (Shahi), Kaboodan, (Qoyoon Daqi), Ashk Daqi, Espir and Arezoo. The said come under the political and commercial sectors of the province.
Islami (Shahi) Island: This island is the only habitable island in the vicinity of Lake Orumieh. It spans over an area of 27 sq. km. Its lush beauty, together with 'fresh water' which is a wonder of wonders in the midst of this lake is saturated with salt. Species of birds such as flamingos and pelicans can be noted in the swampy areas. The remnants of the castle and prison of Hollakoo Khan can be observed on one of the heights of the Islands, a sight seeing spot for tourists.
Kaboodan (Qoyoon Daqi) Island: This is one of the most beautiful islands which stretches over an area of 36 sq. km. This island is on the eastern coast of the lake and is 12 km. far from the port of Sharaf Khaneh. A variety of water fowls can be obscured on this island. Moreover species of wildlife,i.e., wild sheep and wild goat are also present which further enhances the characteristics of this Island. There is also another unique and rare wild species,i.e., Iranian follow deer.
As it was mentioned the three Islands of Ashk Daqi, Espeer and Arezoo of Lake Orumieh are also in the vicinity of the province of East Azarbayjan.
There are numerous Tombs (or shrines) in the province of East Azarbayjan besides those mentioned above. Some of which are Vahsoodan Va Mamlan, Dameshqiyeh, Jamal, Molla Bashi and Ilkhchi in Tesooj...
Besides the above mentioned castles, there are other castles in the province of East Azarbayjan, such as the Qizlar Qalasi Castle 20 km. southwest of Maraqeh, the 'Aaq Gonbad' Castle in the...
This ancient fort is located on a high, stony hillock 26 km. north of Marand. To the east of this, huge stone slabs can be observed related to the periods before the birth of Christ.
The former Shah Goli or the present Eil Goli (the Shah's pool) is one of the recreational areas of Tabriz and Iran located to the north east of Tabriz. The initial date of construction is not...
This lake is situated behind the Alavian dam constructed on the Soofian Chay river. It is also a recreational area being only 3 km. from Maraqeh. The Sahand mountains can also be viewed from...
This famous observatory was constructed in the year 657 AH. during the rule of Hollakoo Khan under the orders of the great Iranian scholar Khajeh Nasiroddin Toosi. Archeologists have excavated...
This structure is the remnants of the Turkamans in the year 870 AH. The mosque was destroyed by the earthquake in the year 1192 AH. and only the gateway remained as an excellent piece of...
This mosque is located in the village of Asnaq. It has stone pillars and beautiful inscription. This mosque is one of the relics of the 8th century AH.
The said mosque, dates back to the Saljuqi and Atabakan periods and is an excellent and interesting piece of architecture. In the inscriptions here the date (1052 AH) can be noted.
From ancient times the music of Azarbayjan owed its fame to the presence of the 'Ashiqs' who were self made artisans contributed to the local music by composing lyrics and displaying their...
This museum is in the vicinity of The Cultural Heritage Directorate and the mausoleum of Ohadi Maraqehei in the city of Maraqeh. This museum houses thousands of valuable hand written books, antiques...
Azarbayjan is well known for its colorful and variety in cuisine. Breakfast is accompanies with a wide range of jams, cream, a variety of fresh bread and…. For lunch and dinner a number of...
This village lies 14 km. from Shabestar. An engraving (on stone) can be observed on one of the hillocks west of it. Here ancient graves are also evident.
This village is located on the borderline of Iran and the Republic of Azarbayjan, 14 km. from the Aras River. With its pleasant climate and natural beauty it stands in importance to the village of...
This village lies 62 km. southwest of Tabriz and 22 km. south of Oskoo. From the architectural point of views this village is interesting, as the settlements are rocky dating back to the 7th century...
