Ciomadul, Dormant volcano in Harghita County, Romania
Ciomadul is a dormant volcano featuring two distinct explosion craters that contain Lake Sfânta Ana and the Mohoș peat bog within its dacitic lava dome. The mountain rises prominently from the surrounding landscape with clear volcanic characteristics.
The volcano formed between 650,000 and 500,000 years ago through dacitic eruptions. Its last recorded eruption occurred around 32,600 years ago.
Local communities gather medicinal plants and wild herbs on these slopes, knowledge passed down through generations and tied to the seasons. The mountain holds meaning as a source of healing plants that people still collect today.
Well-marked hiking trails lead to the summit at 1,289 meters and connect the nearby thermal spa towns of Băile Tușnad and Balvanyos. These paths offer different levels of difficulty to suit various hiking abilities.
An active magma chamber lies beneath the surface with ongoing gas emissions, making it scientifically active despite appearing dormant. Geothermal measurements reveal elevated temperatures showing that underground volcanic activity continues to this day.
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