The ‘Gate to Hell’, a burning crater in the middle of the Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan, has baffled scientists and visitors for decades.
In the vast and desolate landscape of the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan lies one of the most mysterious and fascinating wonders of nature: the “Gate of Hell.” This phenomenon, also known as the “Gate to Hell” or “Darvaza Crater,” is a large burning crater that has been burning for more than five decades, emitting an orange glow in the middle of the darkness of the desert.
The origin of the “Gate of Hell” dates back to the 1970s, when a team of Soviet scientists carried out gas prospecting in the region. While drilling, they came across an underground cavern filled with natural gas. The ground gave way, leaving a huge hole 70 meters in diameter exposed. To prevent the spread of the gas, it was decided to set it on fire, hoping that it would be extinguished in a few days. However, the natural gas that was released turned out to be abundant, keeping the flame alive for more than fifty years.
Where is the “Gate of Hell” located?
The “Gate of Hell” is located in the Karakum Desert, near the town of Darvaza, in Turkmenistan, Central Asia. Surrounded by miles of arid sand, this natural wonder attracts scientists, adventurers and tourists from all over the world.
The reason behind the perpetual flame of the ‘Gate of Hell’ lies in the rich reserve of natural gas that lies beneath the Karakum Desert.
When Soviet scientists discovered the gas-filled cavity, they set it on fire to prevent the spread of the poisonous gases. However, natural gas turned out to be much more abundant than expected, causing the flame to burn unabated ever since.
- Tourist attraction: Despite its remote and desolate location, the “Gate of Hell” attracts thousands of visitors each year, eager to witness this fiery wonder with their own eyes.
- Local Legends: Local inhabitants have woven legends around the “Gate of Hell,” believing that the flame is a manifestation of supernatural forces.
- Scientific studies: Over the years, the “Hell Gate” has been the subject of numerous scientific studies, seeking to better understand the composition of the gas that fuels the flames and its impact on the environment.
- Cinematographic Setting: This stunning natural wonder has served as the backdrop for several films and documentaries, adding to its aura of mystery and wonder.
The “Hell Gate” is not only a reminder of the complexity and beauty of nature, but also of the human ability to alter it in surprising and sometimes permanent ways.
As long as the flame continues to burn, the ‘Gate of Hell’ on Earth will continue to fascinate those who venture to witness its glow in the middle of the night in the Karakum Desert.
