Venušina sopka, Extinct volcano near Mezina, Czech Republic
Venušina sopka is an extinct volcano in Czech Republic reaching about 643 meters in height with a flat crater at its summit. The surface displays distinctive reddish-brown soil, and at the northeastern foot stands an abandoned basalt quarry showing impressive vertical basalt columns.
The volcano experienced its last eruption phase approximately 519,000 years ago, leaving extensive deposits of basalt and volcanic materials across the region. These ancient layers continue to shape the geological character of the landscape today.
The name Venušina sopka, meaning Venus Volcano in Czech, represents a significant geological landmark in the Moravskoslezský kraj territory.
The site is best explored on foot, and a walk around the volcanic slopes takes a few hours depending on your route. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the basalt ground can be uneven and rocky in places.
Geologists have found naturally occurring iron fragments within the basalt deposits, created by interactions between iron-rich magma and coal seams in the rock. This represents a rare example of natural smelting that occurred deep within the volcanic system.
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