description Laguna de Epecuén Overview
Laguna de Epecuén is a salt lake located in the Buenos Aires Province of Argentina. The lake is known for its high salinity, which makes its water buoyant and historically attracted tourists seeking therapeutic treatments. In 1985, a rare weather event caused the lake to overflow its banks, breaking a dam and completely submerging the adjacent tourist village of Villa Epecuén. The waters eventually began to recede in 2009, exposing the deteriorated ruins of the former resort town.
help Laguna de Epecuén FAQ
What caused the town of Epecuén to flood in 1985?
In 1985, a rare weather event caused a local dam to break, resulting in the lake overflowing its banks and swallowing the tourist town of Villa Epecuén. The saltwater eventually rose more than 30 feet deep, submerging the town for decades before the waters began to recede.
Why did tourists historically visit Laguna de Epecuén?
Tourists historically flocked to the lake because it is known for its exceptionally high salinity, which makes the water incredibly buoyant. The water and local mud were believed to offer therapeutic treatments for various ailments, drawing comparisons to the Dead Sea.
Where is Laguna de Epecuén located in Argentina?
The salt lake is located in the Buenos Aires Province of Argentina. It sits near the small village of Carhué, which served as the base for tourists visiting the submerged ruins.
Can you visit the ruins of Villa Epecuén today?
Yes, as the waters of Laguna de Epecuén have gradually receded in recent years, the eerie, salt-covered ruins of the town have been exposed. It has now become a dark tourism destination where visitors can walk among the weathered remains of the former resort town.
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