Focul viu, Natural gas flame phenomenon in Lopătari, Romania
Focul viu is a natural fire phenomenon in a mountainous area where gases emerge through cracks in the Earth and ignite. The flames burn across an area of roughly 25 square meters at approximately 1030 meters elevation in the Buzău region.
The phenomenon formed through geological processes that created natural gas sources beneath the mountain surface. These gas seeps have been documented over time and shape the geology of this area in the western Breazău ridge.
The flames hold a place in local stories and traditions, becoming more visible during nighttime hours. Residents have observed this natural occurrence over generations, incorporating it into their understanding of the land.
Visitors reach the site by taking an unpaved road from the village of Lopătari over some distance. Weather conditions affect accessibility, particularly when heavy rains make the road difficult to travel.
The flames reignite when sunlight touches them or when people light them if they have gone out. This repeated ignition shows how the gas beneath the surface remains constantly present and ready to burn.
GPS coordinates: 45.53583,26.54889
Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:40
Pâclele Mici Mud volcanoes
23.5 km
Rumanite
18.7 km
Ciolanu Monastery
33.4 km
Bisericile rupestre din Munții Buzăului
17.6 km
Lake Siriu
23.7 km
Mud volcanoes of Pâclele Mari
25.2 km
Meledic
7.2 km
Poiana Mărului Monastery
14.4 km
Living fire of Andreiașu
32.1 km
Rătești Monastery
26.2 kmGór-havas
31.2 km
Mănăstirea Cârnu
30.9 km
Dealul cu Lilieci Cernătești
34.1 km
Blazon house in Chiojdu, Buzău
33.2 km
Bădila Limestone Blocks
32.7 km
Pădurea Verdele - Cheile Nărujei II
29.4 km
Cândești mansion
34.6 km
Casa Memorială „Vasile Voiculescu”
27.5 km
Wooden church in Găvanu, Buzău
5 km
Saint Nicholas' church in Lunca Frumoasă, Buzău
25.6 km
Holy Emperors' church in Lunca Priporului, Buzău
21.9 km
Biserica „Sf. Nicolae” din Bâscenii de Jos
33.4 km
Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Sibiciu de Sus
26.7 km
Casa Săseanu din Bâscenii de Jos
37.1 km
Archangels' church in Bozioru, Buzău
17.6 km
Moara de apă din Cătina
35.8 km
Dumitrești-Față
28.9 km
Presentation of Mary church in Ciuta, Buzău
30.2 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes