Ormuz

Ormuz, historically spelled Ormus or Hormuz, refers to two related features in the Persian Gulf: the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow sea passage that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, and Hormuz Island, the largest island off Iran’s southern coast in Hormozgan Province. The two share a common etymological origin linked to early local names and the broader region’s history of trade and navigation.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical marine chokepoint between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula. At its narrowest, the strait is about 21 miles (34 kilometers) wide, though it widens in places along its several dozen miles of length. It is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, through which a substantial portion of the globe’s petroleum and other goods pass. The strait has long been a focal point of regional security concerns and international naval activity.

Hormuz Island lies off the southern coast of Iran, near the port city of Bandar Abbas. The island is known for its distinctive landscapes, including red soils and several colorful rock formations, as well as a historic coastal town. The main settlement, Hormuz town, sits near a ruined fortress that dates to the period of Portuguese presence in the Gulf. The island’s economy centers on fishing, small-scale crafts, and growing tourism, attracted by its scenery, caves, and historic sites.

History and name: Ormuz/Hormuz has long been a gateway for transregional trade. The island was controlled by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later relinquished to Persian forces in 1622. The name Ormuz/Hormuz reflects ancient naming traditions connected to the region, with English and European forms (Ormus, Ormuz) evolving from local toponyms and religiously influenced terms.