It is told that in the 6th century, the Italian merchant Ludovico de Varthema, purchased 200 rubies (paid with some coral) after seeing the gems shining at moonlight. This tale attracted hordes of unscrupulous traders looking for sapphires, rubies and other precious stones. Set in an upland valley at over 1.000 mt, the town is located around a beautiful lake. With prior arrangement, required special permit can be applied for tourists to visit Mogok.