Sahand
| Sahand | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Elevation | 3,707 m (12,162 ft) |
| Prominence | 1,826 m (5,991 ft) |
| Listing | Ultra |
| Location | |
 Sahand
|
|
| Coordinates | 37°42′N 46°25′E / 37.7°N 46.417°ECoordinates: 37°42′N 46°25′E / 37.7°N 46.417°E |
| Geology | |
| Type | Stratovolcano |
| Age of rock | 12–0.14 million years |
Sahand (Persian: سهند, Azerbaijani: سهند ) is a massive, heavily eroded stratovolcano in northwestern Iran. At 3,707 m (12,162 ft), it is the highest mountain in the Iranian province of East Azarbaijan.
It is one of the highest mountains in Iranian Azerbaijan, in addition to being an important dormant volcano in the country. The Sahand mountains are directly south of Tabriz, the highest peak of which is Kamal at an altitude of 3,707 m.. Approximately 17 peaks can be accounted for as being over 3,000 m. in height. Due to the presence of a variety of flora and fauna, the Sahand mountains are known as the bride of mountains in Iran.[citation needed]
It is also the name of an Iranian Saam Class frigate sunk in Operation Praying Mantis by American forces in 1988.
[edit] Winter sports
On the north foot of the mountain and near the city of Tabriz, a winter sport's complex has been built. This complex, also known as the Sahand Skiing Stadium, greets visitors with a variety of sports including, skiing and snowboarding. The snow statue competition, which runs once a year at mid-winter in the stadium is a famous and amusing event, which attracts spectators and competitors from all over the country.
