Tour of the active volcano Vesuvius:
Tickets must be purchased in advance in order to climb the Volcano.
Many famous people from the worlds of film, literature and business have been impressed by a visit to the shadowy region of Vesuvius. At the foot of the volcano, unique worlds open up. It is the cultural centre of the region: archaeology, natural landscapes, mosaics and frescoes. Yet each of these resources stands at the foot of a majestic and imposing beauty.
Vesuvius is an active volcano 15 kilometres from Naples in the Campania region of southern Italy on the Gulf of Naples. The height of the volcano is 1281 metres and the mountain system is the Apennines. It is the only active volcano in continental Europe. There are two variants of the origin of the name of the volcano: the first from the Oka fest – smoke, the second from the Proto-Indo-European root ves, which means mountain. Vesuvius is recognised as one of the most dangerous volcanoes. At the moment there are reports of more than eighty significant eruptions.
In 1880, a pendulum funicular was built, which could be used to get to Vesuvius. The funicular consisted of two large carriages that were powered by a steam engine. The ride became very popular, it became a tourist symbol of the region and a song was composed in honour of the funicular, which is still known today. The 1944 eruption destroyed the ride.
In 1953, a chairlift was built on the eastern slope of Vesuvius and became a popular tourist attraction. However, the 1980 earthquake damaged it so badly that it was not rebuilt. Today, an equipped walking trail is available for tourists to visit Vesuvius.
The eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. – is the worst natural disaster in human history. The last eruption of Vesuvius occurred on 29 March 1944. Volcanologists are monitoring Vesuvius day and night, measuring the composition and temperature of vapours and seismological activity.
When the next eruption will take place is unknown, but it is bound to happen. In the meantime, tourists visiting Italy have the opportunity to “conquer” the summit of Vesuvius.
Drive to the 1000 metre mark. Then it is necessary to climb on foot to the vent. The views from the top are unforgettable. During the tour you will see volcanologists at work.
