The legend of 1,600 tons of gold at the bottom of Lake Baikal is a fascinating story that has captured the imagination of many. Lake Baikal, recognized as the deepest lake in the world, holds numerous mysteries and is surrounded by legends.
According to the legend, during the tumultuous period of 1917, as Tsar Nicholas II faced challenges to his rule, noblemen carrying a large amount of gold and silver treasures attempted to flee Russia.
While passing through Lake Baikal, they were pursued by enemies. In their haste, they left behind a staggering 1,600 tons of gold, which sank to the bottom of the lake.
Another version suggests that the gold belonged to Tsar Nicholas II himself. While transporting the gold to a safer location, the group encountered a thaw on Lake Baikal. Unable to escape in time, the 1,600 tons of gold, along with the escorting army, sank to the lake’s depths.
Several factors contribute to the reluctance to recover this supposed treasure:
Lake Structure and Location: Lake Baikal is incredibly deep, with a recorded depth of up to 1,637 meters. The total volume of the lake exceeds 2.36 billion cubic meters. The vastness and depth make salvage efforts almost impossible.
Seismic Activity: Lake Baikal is located at the intersection of seismic belts, experiencing earthquakes approximately every 10 years. Catastrophic earthquakes can occur every 30 years, affecting the lake’s geological structure and water levels. Such seismic activity poses a significant challenge to salvage operations.
Environmental Impact: Lake Baikal is home to various species of freshwater animals, including Baikal seals, Arctic white trout, and others. Salvage operations could potentially cause irreparable damage to the lake’s ecosystem, making it an unappealing prospect.
Ownership and Conservation: Lake Baikal was designated a World Heritage site in 1996. Determining ownership of the gold found in a UNESCO-protected natural site would be a complex and contentious issue. The lake is shared by the Republic of Buryatia and the Irkutsk Oblast, adding to the complexity.
The legend adds a layer of mystique to Lake Baikal, a place already known for its breathtaking beauty and natural wonders. While the tale of sunken gold remains unproven, the lake continues to captivate locals and tourists alike with its rich biodiversity, unique geological features, and enigmatic stories.
