Sol-Iletsk in 3 Russian words
This small town on the border with Kazakhstan holds the official title of Russia’s ‘Watermelon Capital’. Here are three of its main symbols.
1. СОЛЕНОЕ ОЗЕРО (Salt Lake)
Salt lakes are considered an excellent remedy for treating and preventing many illnesses and ailments. There are six such lakes in Sol-Iletsk. The most famous is Lake Razval, which has a salt concentration comparable to that of the Dead Sea. You can simply lie back and read a book! However, it is strongly advised not to stay in the water for more than 30 minutes!
2. ПОКРОВСКИЕ МЕЛОВЫЕ ГОРЫ (Pokrovskoye Chalk Hills)
Located 60 km from Sol-Iletsk are the picturesque chalk hills. These are layers of chalk that rose to the surface 70 million years ago. Within the layers, one can find fossilized shells of ancient mollusks and, with a bit of luck, even the remains of large reptiles.
3. АРБУЗ (Watermelon)
Sol-Iletsk is known as the ‘Watermelon Capital’ of Russia and leads the country in watermelon cultivation. Thanks to the unique soil composition and favorable climate, the watermelons grow to an impressive size and boast an exquisite flavor. Every year, the town hosts a themed festival that draws thousands of visitors, who come to sample the local produce and take part in various watermelon-themed contests.
