Solfatara

The Solfatara crater measures 770 by 580 meters, with a perimeter of 2.3 kilometers and contains active fumaroles releasing sulfurous gases.

The Romans named this site Sulpha Terra due to its sulfuric properties, and Pliny the Elder referenced it as Fontes Leucogei in his writings.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, people visited the site for its perceived therapeutic properties, using the mineral-rich mud and vapors for treatments.

The crater maintains constant monitoring through geological instruments due to its location within the active Phlegraean Fields volcanic system.

The site led to the discovery of Sulfolobus solfataricus, a heat-loving microorganism that thrives in the extreme conditions of the volcanic environment.

Location: Campania

Elevation above the sea: 458 m

Website: https://parcodeicampiflegrei.it/27-conoscere-il-parco/siti-naturalistici-e-paesaggistici/aree-del-parco/53-solfatara.html

GPS coordinates: 40.82732,14.14039

Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:59