ORMUZ, an island of Asia, at the entrance of the Per sian Gulf. It is about six miles long, and four broad, about five miles from the continent of Persia, and twenty five from that of Arabia. The island is traversed by a high mountain running from east to west, which is sup posed to have been a volcano. It is very barren and rocky, and contains quantities of rock salt, which is so hard that it is said to be used for building houses. The soil consists principally of white sand, which was once imported into Europe. There is no water in the island but what is collected in cisterns.
The ancient city of Ormuz is a mass of ruins, the re servoirs of water being the only buildings that are still in a perfect state. It contains only a fort and a wretched suburb with about 500 inhabitants.
The only natural productions of the island are, sulphur, salt, and red earth, for which vessels occasionally come The black shining Sand of the island is much esteemed in India.
Ormuz once contained a city, which became the most splendid in Asia, from its being the principal magazine of Indian commerce. Albuquerque attempted in vain, in 1508, to take the island, which was defended by 30,000 men ; and had in its harbour 400 vessels, 60 of which were brigs, and having in all 2500 men on board. He returned, however, in 1514, with an overwhelming force, and having obtained possession .of the island, he erected a strong fort. It remained in their possession for 120 years, and advanced so rapidly in wealth and splendour, that it was deemed the richest spot in the world. In 1622, it surrendered to the combined arms of the English and Persians. Having thus fallen into the hands of the Per sians, the place fell into decay, and its trade was transfer red to Gombroon. East Long. 56° 40', North Lat. 27° 12'.