Caspian Sea Tour from Aktau -
The Caspian Sea is a remnant of the ancient Paratethys Sea, part of the Tethys Ocean, which existed 50 to 60 million years ago. At that time, according to WorldLakes.org, the Tethys Ocean was connected to the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Over the millennia, continental plates shifted, and the Tethys Ocean lost its connection with the other oceans. Much of it evaporated during hot and dry periods, eventually forming the Caspian, Black, and Aral Seas.
The Caspian Sea is estimated to be approximately 30 million years old. Saltwater from the Tethys Sea remains and accounts for the Caspian Sea's salinity.
History
According to the New World Encyclopedia, archaeologists estimate that humans inhabited this area approximately 75,000 years ago. It is named after the Kaspi tribe, who settled on its southwestern shore. According to the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), by the 10th century, small oil wells were scattered along the shores of the Caspian Sea.
Europeans learned of the region's resource-rich nature and began exploring the Caspian Sea in the 16th century. The first offshore oil well was drilled in 1820. Today, the oil and gas industry occupies a significant place in the area. Other industries include salt mining, fishing, and coastal tourism.
According to GRID-Arendal, the water level of the Caspian Sea has fluctuated throughout history. From the mid-19th to the late 20th century, water levels fluctuated by more than 12 feet (3.6 m). In 1977, the Caspian Sea flooded, causing widespread destruction. Several more floods have occurred since then. Since 1978, water levels have risen nearly 7.4 feet (2.2 m), according to Pars.
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