Lake Razim

How it formed

Razim belongs to a complex of limans, or coastal lagoons, on the Black Sea. The northern group, with Razim and the neighbouring Golovița, holds fresh water, and the southern lagoons are salty.

History

The lagoons were separated from the sea in the late 1970s, with large changes in conditions: the water became almost entirely fresh, it stayed longer in the lake, and algal blooms appeared. Fishing has been the main livelihood of the delta’s people since ancient times, although today the fish catch is smaller and of a different quality.

Fishermen and fortresses

Jurilovca is a fishing village founded in the 18th century by Lipovan fishermen, with a view over the lake from Cape Dolosman, where the ruins of the ancient fortress of Argamum lie. Enisala fortress, on a limestone hill above Razim and Lake Babadag, is a medieval stronghold from the 13th or 14th century, probably built by Genoese merchants, and said to be the only surviving medieval fortress in Dobrogea.

Nature

Despite the environmental damage, the lake remains an important habitat. Of the families of cockles that lived here in the 1960s, the two that remain are found only in Razim, and at lower numbers. Popina Island at the northern end of the lake is a refuge for many birds and invertebrates. A recent ecological study suggests that the lagoon system is close to the good ecological status the European Water Framework Directive requires.

Birds

Look for white and Dalmatian pelicans, egrets, herons and swans, with early morning and sunset the best times. Cape Dolosman is a favourite place for birdwatchers, especially in November when large numbers of red-breasted geese arrive. May and June are recommended for birds and flowers, and autumn for colour.