Presently, there are around 1,500 potentially active volcanoes scattered around the world. You will be amazed to know that of these active volcanoes, around a third has already erupted. Inquisitive about what happens when they erupt? They spread heavy smoke, lava and ash from the surface and into enclosing cities and towns, causing severe pollution.

Volcanoes remain to be an intriguing subject for geologists and growing geographers to learn about as part of their research. Their complicated arrangements, vast history (sometimes spanning millions of year’s), and other factors, repeatedly demonstrates to be a much-important portion of any curriculum.

To know more about the volcanoes, let’s know about the most dangerous volcano in the world.

Vesuvius – The Most Dangerous Of All!

Vesuvius, the only active volcano in mainland Europe, has generated the continent’s biggest volcanic eruptions. Fixed on Italy’s west coast, it rests in the crater of the ancient Somma Volcano.

Vesuvius volcano is situated in the Gulf of Naples, Italy. The explanation is that Vesuvius’ particular eruptions are very volatile and the slopes of the volcano and primary area surrounding the volcano are very densely populated. The city of Naples is just about 20 km away from the volcano. 

Vesuvius has been silent since 1944. However, it is quite obvious that it will arise again, sooner or later. When it wakes up, it inclines to start a new eruptive cycle with a huge sub-Plinian or Plinian eruption.

If a major Plinian eruption occurs anytime soon, a population of more than 3 million could be at risk and a great value of infrastructure could be destroyed.

What has the Government Planned?

Volcanoes create a sense of fear, right? In the past, whenever Vesuvius erupted, it was highly disastrous. It took the lives of people. 

In case a new eruption is likely to occur, the Italian government has ideas to vacate 600,000 people residing in the immediate risk area on the lower slopes of the volcano. However, it is doubtful whether such plans are practical or could be helpful. 

Also, the answer to the uncertainty of such a plan could be that a volcano is the most dangerous depending on the definition of dangerousness. A good measure is the total volcanic risk extended by the volcano. Vesuvius ranks much higher above even super volcanoes in its “dangerousness”. 

Visiting the Mount Vesuvius

Are you thinking of visiting Mount Vesuvius? Here’s some reliable information that could help you while planning a visit. 

“The secret for harvesting from existence the greatest fruitfulness and the greatest enjoyment is: to live dangerously! Build your cities on the slopes of Vesuvius!” F. Nietzsche

Mount Vesuvius must be on your travel list if you like outdoors and scenery! The picturesque view from the tips of the crater to the Bay of Naples, Capri and the peninsula of Sorrento are extraordinary. On a clear day, it is difficult to explain whether it is nice to stare out to infinity or look inside the crater.

Is the Vesuvius Volcano Active Presently?

Vesuvius is a stratovolcano at the convergent boundary. Here the African Plate is being sub ducted beneath the Eurasian Plate.

Vesuvius is still considered an active volcano. Its current activity generates little more than sulfur-rich steam from holes at the bottom and borders of the crater. 

Will Vesuvius Erupt Anytime Soon?

Yes, Mount Vesuvius is considered to be an active volcano. It could very well erupt again. Mount Vesuvius is settled on the tip of an exceptionally deep layer of magma that goes 154 miles deep into the earth. Therefore, the next Mount Vesuvius eruption will happen very soon. 

What If The Vesuvius Volcano Erupted?

By the estimation and studies by specialists, a VEI 4 or 5 eruptions have the potential to take away the lives of more than 10,000 people. It could cost the Italian economy more than $20 billion. Millions of people would surely lose water, transportation and power for months. The devastation could cause havoc. 

Is Mount Vesuvius Safe to Visit?

If answered in a word – yes. The last eruption of Vesuvius took place in 1944. The volcano is technically active, but there are secure warnings before an eruption. For instance, an earthquake is the biggest triggering factor for any volcanic event.

How Long Do You Need To Tour It?

Three hours or more is enough to visit Mount Vesuvius. It also relies on the choice of transportation. 

The driving part from the town of Torre del Greco to the beginning of the trail takes about 45 minutes each way. The hiking part can be done in 1.5 hours. Start doing some exercises before trekking the volcano so that you don’t face health problems during the trek.

This includes walking up and down and wandering at the top to admire the outstanding views of the Bay of Naples and the main crater “Gran Cono”.

Ticket Office Opening Time:

The ticket is available from:

• March to October from 9 am to 6 pm. 

• During April, May, June and September from 9 am to 5 pm.
• July and August from 9 am to 6 pm
• From November to February from 9 am to 3 pm

Keep in mind that you should purchase tickets at least 1.5 hours before closing time. Do not forget to keep some cash handy as you won’t find ATMs there.

Is It A Hard Walk Through Mount Vesuvius

Reaching the top is the main part of the trek. It is only possible by hiking. Walking to Mount Vesuvius has moderate-high difficulty. It is quite uneven and steep. You can bring some extra cloth or a small mat to sit on as there are no benches to sit on. There isn’t any shade as well. 

What To Bring For Trekking?

The size of the cone of Mt Vesuvius is over 4000 feet. Wear comfortable walking shoes, a wind jacket, sunglasses, a hat and a bottle of water. Since the trek isn’t too long, Sandals would also work. 

Remember that your feet will be dirty with ashes. The path has a lot of little pebbles that will end under your feet. Make sure to use the toilet before you start the trek.

Get ready to tour the most dangerous volcano in the world, yet witness some amazing picturesque views!