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12 Interesting Facts About Mount Vesuvius That You Must Know
Mount Vesuvius is one of the best-known active volcanoes in the world and is also considered to be one of the most dangerous. Here, we will look at 12 fascinating facts about Mount Vesuvius.
12 Fascinating Facts On Mount Vesuvius
1. Formed from 2 Volcanoes
Mount Vesuvius also has a second volcanic peak attached to it, Monte Somma. Vesuvius grew from the top of Monte Somma.
2. Before 79 AD Mount Vesuvius remained unnamed
It was only after the devastating eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD, that it was named after the Roman God of Fire and Forgery, Vulcan.
3. An Astonishing 17,000 Years old volcano
Mt Vesuvius started forming about 17,000 years ago, from the caldera of the ancestral Monte Somma volcano.
4. Vesuvius has had 8 major eruptions till now
There have been 8 major eruptions that have taken place at Vesuvius in the last 17000 years. Of these, the eruption n 79 AD was the largest.
5. Mount Vesuvius remained dormant for 1800 years
The people of Pompeii and Herculaneum were not aware that Vesuvius was a volcano since it hasn’t erupted in about 1800 years.
6. The debris from the 79 AD Eruption was very heavy
The weight of the debris every second was a shopping 1.5 million tons. This is the equivalent of 250,000 fully grown elephants falling every second.
7. 79 AD Euroption lasted 24 hours
The eruption in 79 AD is believed to have lasted more than 24 hours. However, the first eruption of pumice and ash was not lethal.
8. Tax exemption for Vesuvius eruption
The volcanic eruption in 512 was so bad, that the people who lived in the region were given a tax exemption by the ruling kingdom.
9. Vesuvius is a stratovolcano
Mount Vesuvius is classified as a stratovolcano due to its conical shape, formed by thousands of layers of lava and pyroclastic rocks.
10. Mount Vesuvius has fertile slopes
Currently, fruits and vegetables are grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Vineyards also have been established here.
11. Potential for huge displacement of People
Up to 3 million people may be affected by a potential eruption of Mt Vesuvius. This is because Vesuvius is only located about 15 km from Naples.
12. Pliny the Younger first talked about Vesuvius eruption
The first detailed description in the history of a volcanic eruption was that of Pliny the Younger, as he saw the eruption in 79 AD from his house in the Bay of Naples.
Frequently Asked Questions On Mount Vesuvius Facts
When was the last time Mount Vesuvius erupted?
The last time Mount Vesuvius erupted was between the 17th and 23rd of March 1944.
Where is Mount Vesuvius located?
Mount Vesuvius is located in the Gulf of Naples, in Italy.
How did the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD affect the city of Pompeii?
The city of Pompeii was destroyed by the eruption at Mt Vesuvius in AD 79.
Is it safe to visit Mount Vesuvius?
Yes, it is safe to visit mount Vesuvius. Although it is an active volcano, it will not suddenly spew lava out. The volcano is under close observation, and visitors will not be allowed if it is close to eruption.
How tall is Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius is 1232 meters (4203 feet) tall.
How often does Mount Vesuvius erupt?
Mount Vesuvius has not erupted in about 80 years. In the 19th century, it erupted 8 times, and in the 20th century, it erupted 3 times.
Is Mount Vesuvius still active?
Yes, Mount Vesuvius is classified as an active volcano.
What are the dangers of living near Mount Vesuvius?
If Mount Vesuvius were to erupt again, more than 3 million people’s lives would be endangered.
What is the current status of Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius is currently classified as an active volcano but has not erupted in over 80 years.
What kind of activities can you do at Mount Vesuvius?
You can take a hike up Mt Vesuvius.
How long does it take to hike up Mount Vesuvius?
It takes approximately 90 minutes to hike up, enjoy the views at the top, and come down.
What is the view like from the top of Mount Vesuvius?
The views from the top of Mount Vesuvius are spectacular. To the south, you can see the archaeological area of Pompeii, and to the east is the city of Naples and the Gulf of Naples. You can also see down into the volcano’s crater.
What is the best time of year to visit Mount Vesuvius?
The best time of the year to visit Mount Vesuvius is from the start of April to the mid of June, or from the start of September to the end of October.