DARVAZA — «GATES OF HELL»

Darvaza (Turkmen: Derweze, from Persian “darvaza” — meaning “gate”) is one of the most surreal and iconic landmarks of Turkmenistan. Known worldwide as the “Door to the Underworld” or the “Gates of Hell,” this blazing gas crater lies deep in the Karakum Desert and has been burning continuously for decades. The crater was created in 1971 when a drilling incident caused the ground to collapse into a massive pocket of natural gas. To prevent hazardous emissions, scientists ignited the gas, expecting it to burn out in a few days — yet the flames have never stopped. Measuring around 70 meters across and 20 meters deep, Darvaza glows with bright flames and intense heat. At night, its fiery light illuminates the desert horizon, creating a dramatic and otherworldly sight that attracts adventurers and travelers from around the globe.