Lake Izabal (Spanish pronunciation: [isaˈ
Lake Izabal | |
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![]() from space | |
Coordinates | 15°30′00″N 89°10′00″W / 15.5°N 89.1667°W |
Primary inflows | Polochic River |
Primary outflows | Río Dulce |
Basin countries | Guatemala |
Surface area | 589.6 km2 (227.6 sq mi)[1] |
Max. depth | 18 m (59 ft) |
Surface elevation | 1 m (3.3 ft) |
References | [1] |
The well preserved colonial Castillo de San Felipe de Lara guarded this lake against pirate attacks, and there are some ancient sunken ships nearby. It is home to several species including the Manatee, Jaguar, Spider Monkey, Blue-eye cichlids, and Howler Monkey, and is a popular place for birdwatching.
Culture
editThere are many indigenous communities surrounding the lake, namely the Mayas Q'eqchi'.
The Castle of San Felipe de Lara, constructed in 1652 in honor of judge Antonio Lara Mangravo, was built to protect the region from pirates.
References
edit- ^ a b INSIVUMEH. "Indice de lagos". Retrieved 13 July 2008.
External links
edit- Instituto Nacional de Sismología, Vulcanología, Meteorología e Hidrolagía (INSIVUMEH)
- Lakes in Guatemala Photo gallery
- Lake description (in Spanish)
- Guatemalan Fauna Photo gallery