Damavand

Damavand or Demavend (both: dem'uvend) [key], volcanic cone, 18,606 ft (5,671 m) high, in the Elburz range, N Iran. A permanently snow-covered volcano of recent geologic origin, it emits gases and small quantities of sulfurous materials; lava flows have impounded local streams, creating many small lakes. There are mineral springs and fruit orchards on Damavand's slopes. The mountain is the traditional scene of the feats performed by such legendary heroes of ancient Persia as Rustam and Faridun; it was immortalized in the great epic poem the Shahnameh.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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