The Gates of Hell in Turkmenistan: How a burning crater changed the fate of an entire city

The amazing story of the “Gate of Hell” – a crater burning for more than 50 years
Among the deserts of Turkmenistan, in Karakum, is a mysterious place known as the “Gates of Hell”. This burning crater, whose diameter is about 60 meters and depth is almost 20 meters, attracts the attention of tourists and scientists from all over the world. For more than 50 years, it has been engulfed in flames, creating an impressive yet sinister spectacle that is breathtaking. But how did this mysterious crater come about and why does its flames not fade after half a century?

The story of the “Gate of Hell” begins in 1971, when Soviet geologists were exploring gas fields in the Karakum desert. During the drilling accident occurred: the rig collapsed into an underground cavity, resulting in a huge crater. It began to emit natural gas, which was dangerous to the environment and human health. To avoid the spread of harmful substances, geologists decided to set fire to the gas, believing that it will burn out in a few days. However, more than fifty years have passed since then, and the flames in the crater have still not extinguished, making this place one of the most famous natural phenomena in the world.



How did this natural phenomenon come about and why is it still there?
It is hard to imagine that the burning of natural gas can continue for so long. After the crater caught fire, scientists believed that the fire would go out in a few days or at least weeks. But they were wrong. The gates of hell burn today, turning into a real natural wonder that still amazes experts.

The reason for the long burning is associated with a large volume of gas accumulated in the underground layers of the Karakums. Plates of land containing natural gas prove to be an inexhaustible source of fuel for flames. It is believed that under the surface where the crater is located, there are even deeper gas deposits that feed the fire. This process allows the crater to burn for decades and turns it into a unique natural phenomenon.

Interestingly, Turkmenistan does not seek to extinguish the flames, despite the environmental and economic consequences. In 2010, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov proposed closing the crater, but the country decided to keep it as a tourist attraction.

The impact of the burning crater on the lives and fate of people in the vicinity
Life near the “Gates of Hell” for decades had a strong impact on the fate of local residents. Some villages are located near the crater, and their residents have witnessed a unique phenomenon that has entered their daily lives. Although the crater is located in a remote region, the constant flames that illuminate the night sky have become an integral part of the lives of people living nearby.

There are also economic consequences. Local residents living near the crater began to actively attract tourists, creating infrastructure for travelers. This place has become an important tourist attraction in Turkmenistan, and some people have been able to build a small business on it, selling souvenirs and offering services to tourists.

However, the impact of the crater on human life is not always positive. Environmentalists point out that the ongoing burning of gas emits carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, which adversely affects the environment. Locals also say that the burning crater sometimes creates an unpleasant smell and elevated air temperature around, especially during the summer months, making it difficult to live near it.

Mystical beliefs and theories of local residents
Naturally, such an unusual phenomenon gave rise to many mystical legends and beliefs. Locals have long called this place the “Gate of Hell”, considering it to be an exit to the other world. Since ancient times, this region has been considered sacred, and the “burning crater” has only strengthened the belief that supernatural events are taking place here.

Some residents believe that the fire in the crater is a manifestation of the power of the earth, which “punishes” people for excessive interference with nature. In their view, fire symbolizes a warning that nature can take revenge if its laws are violated. For this reason, locals sometimes hold rites and offerings near the crater to “calm” the spirits of the land.

It is also believed that the crater can heal and bring good luck. Some travelers come to the crater not only for curiosity, but also in search of a spiritual experience. Fire and endless deserts create a special atmosphere that allows people to feel closer to the natural elements.

Conclusion
The Gates of Hell in Turkmenistan is an amazing natural phenomenon that attracts not only scientists, but also tourists from all over the world. This burning crater changed the lives of the locals, became an important landmark and a source of inspiration for many legends. Its flame, which has been burning for more than half a century, symbolizes the power of nature and reminds humanity of its unpredictability.

It is difficult to say how long the Gates of Hell will burn, but one thing is certain: this unique crater has already taken its place in the history and culture of Turkmenistan, and also attracted the attention of the whole world. Perhaps one day we will reveal all the secrets that this fire portal hides, but until then, the Gates of Hell continue to beckon and amaze those who dare to look into their burning heart.