Vesuvius Volcano is one of the most famous in the world and one of the most accessible for tourists. Its height is only 1281 meters and it is located in the suburbs of the big city of Naples. Known, first of all, for the eruption in 79 AD, when it destroyed the city of Pompeii.
The volcano is still active, the only one in continental Europe, and is considered quite dangerous. In the Middle Ages, its eruption killed 4 thousand and even 26 thousand people, and the last eruption was in 1944.
Less known fact: Vesuvius is located on the border of the super volcano Phlegraean Fields. There are about a dozen supervolcanoes in the world, the most famous of which is Yellowstone. Supervolcanoes are dangerous primarily because they can create a volcanic winter and the mass extinction of species.
According to scientists, the mega-eruption of the Phlegraean Fields 40 thousand years ago led to the extinction of Neanderthals. Without that eruption, we could be today not Homo Sapiens, but Neanderthals.
Climbing the volcano is not difficult. Only 1 km from the entrance and elevation only 150 meters. The main thing is not to forget comfortable shoes and water. However, on hot days we do not recommend the walk, as the area is completely open. And visit the toilet before start, as there are no toilets at the top.
Since there are no other high mountains nearby, you can see towns at a distance of tens of kilometers, for example, the island of Capri. The crater itself is not very interesting, so come only in good weather, when you can enjoy the surrounding landscapes.
In this photo you can see the parking lot, it is impossible to drive closer with your transport. In the background is Naples and the supervolcano Phlegraean Fields.
A crater, though not very interesting, except the occasional smoke. It is also impossible to go around it in a circle. Perhaps earlier it was possible, but now the path is blocked halfway.
The only interesting object on top. I don’t know what it is, probably with the help of helicopters and concrete blocks authorities will regulate the lava flows in case of an eruption.
We only climbed a volcano, but Vesuvius National Park covers the surrounding areas, where there are many hiking trails. On the official website you can see their description and maps.
Getting there: parking N 40 49.668 E 14 24.905, then 2 km to the main entrance either on foot, or by minibus for a small fee. There is a bus from Naples from Piazza Piedigrotta, see the information and timetable here. There is also a bus timetable for Pompeii - Vesuvius route and a faster option from Naples - train + bus, for example via the Ercolano Scavi station.
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