Ilopango Volcano, Salvador

The capital city of El Salvador is located near the famous Ilopango volcano. During the history it erupted twice. The first eruption, which occurred in the 5th century BC, was the most powerful and destructive. After the first destructive eruption, the whole territory of the western and central El Salvador was literally burned. It laid covered with a thick layer of ash.

Later, in the 535-536 AD, the most serious global cooling in 2 000 years was observed in the Northern Hemisphere. Researchers suggest that the volcanic eruption might be a reason. The element has destroyed several ancient Mayan cities and forced representatives of the ancient civilization to escape to safer areas, i.e. to the north of Guatemala. Currently, huge calderas remind about the strongest eruption, which occurred more than 1 500 years ago. These bowls are now filled with an incredibly beautiful lake. Shores of the lake are covered with dense vegetation.

The last eruption was in 1880. It was large-scale; the lava flow was directed upwards for 450 meters. The main natural attraction, which owes its existence to a mighty volcano, is Lake Ilopango. It was formed in a huge bowl, which is about 11 km long and about 8 km wide. These amazing scenic spots will attract not only for nature lovers, but also those who love extreme sports. Not far from the picturesque lake there is the Salvador airport that has been the venue for the annual grand airshow for the last several years. Next - Siberian Traps