Izalco, Active stratovolcano in western El Salvador
Izalco is a stratovolcano in Sonsonate Department in western El Salvador, rising to 1,950 meters above sea level. The cone shows a symmetrical shape with dark slopes of solidified lava and ash that stand out clearly against the green surroundings.
The volcano formed in 1770 and remained almost constantly active until 1958, with its nighttime eruptions creating a glow visible from far away. Ship captains on the Pacific used this fire for centuries as a natural lighthouse to navigate along the coast.
The mineral deposits within Izalco's fumaroles contain rare elements such as bannermanite, fingerite, and mcbirneyite, attracting geological researchers worldwide.
Access is through Cerro Verde National Park, where marked hiking trails lead to the summit. The climb takes several hours and requires sturdy footwear, as the slopes consist of loose volcanic rock.
An eruption in 1926 buried the entire village of Matazano under ash and rock, killing 56 people. The remains of the settlement still lie hidden beneath the solidified volcanic material.
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