Ansamed

(ANSAmed) - ANKARA, NOVEMBER 24 - The aquarium due to be built in Antalya, Turkey, will become the second largest in Europe and the fifth largest in the world, according to Turkish agency Anadolu. The Agncy also reported that works will start on Tuesday, November 29th. The aquarium in the Turkish sea resort on the Mediterranean will have more than 5 million litres of water in its main pool, the agency specified quoting a report by the Antalya Municipality. "The longest tunnel-aquarium in Europe" will be 131-mt. long, on an area covering over 12,000 square metres.

The agency did not specify which aquarium is the largest in Europe; however, it can be assumed that the Antalya aquarium would compete especially with the Valencia and Genoa aquaria, which are known for their large size. The agency specified that there will be a special area for sharks in Antalya and 36 thematic areas on Turkey's and the world's seas and on rivers, lakes, poisonous species and jellyfish. Visitors can touch the fish and swim with the manta ray and sharks if they wish. The structure will include a diving school, a cinema, a children's area and exhibit rooms. Bars and restaurants will be built in an area where artificial snow falls will take place: visitors can sleigh and make snowmen in this area. The company Antalya Aquarium was awarded the bid for construction and will manage the structure for the first 25 years. (ANSAmed).