Dašt-e Khara

The dry country around Abarkuh forms a broad basin on the central Iranian plateau, enclosed by mountain ranges. Seasonal streams descend from the slopes and spread over alluvial fans before reaching the low desert floor. Salt flats, bare mud and patches of windblown sand alternate across the basin, while the oasis of Abarkuh stands on its margin. The contrast between irrigated gardens and pale barren ground marks the boundary of settlement in this arid landscape.