Hamun Lake

Lake Hāmūn, located in the endorheic Sīstān Basin straddling the Afghanistan-Iran border, is notable both for its ecological and archaeological significance. This seasonal lake and its surrounding wetlands have supported human habitation for millennia, forming a distinct cultural landscape adapted to desert wetlands. The region houses significant archaeological sites, including the prehistoric city of Shahr-e Sukhteh, dating back to the Chalcolithic period, and the ancient Achaemenid city of Dahan-e Gholaman. These sites reveal insights into early urban development and water management practices in arid environments. The lake's historical fluctuations, particularly due to climatic changes and modern human intervention, underscore the delicate balance required to sustain such ecosystems. The area's designation as a Ramsar site highlights its ecological importance, while its archaeological findings contribute to our understanding of human adaptation and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.