Puerta del Diablo

Puerta del Diablo is a rock formation on Cerro El Chulo mountain in Panchimalco, El Salvador, where two stone peaks form a natural arch. The arch opens to views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges, with trails winding through trees and loose rock to different vantage points.

The arch formed in October 1762 when heavy rain eroded parts of the mountain and forced the two stone masses apart. Before that event, the rock formed a continuous ridge without the opening now visible between the peaks.

The Spanish name translates as ‚Gate of the Devil' and comes from an old story about a young woman fleeing an unwanted suitor. Local artisans often sell handmade souvenirs near the viewing platforms on weekends, connecting visitors to generations of craft tradition in the area.

The trails cross rocky terrain with some steep sections, so sturdy shoes with good grip are advisable. Local guides are available to show the way and share information about the area, which can be helpful especially in wet conditions.

Cerro El Chulo means ‚Place of the Deserter' or ‚Place of the Fugitive' in the indigenous language, possibly pointing to earlier events before Spanish colonial times. The mountain name existed before the devil story and the arch became popular.