Yanar Dağ (also: Yanar dag or Yanar dagh, in English: burning mountain) is a natural natural gas fire burning since ancient times on the slope of a hill in Azerbaijan. The site of the fire is located a few kilometers north of the state capital Baku and is open to tourism. Flames up to three meters high rise from a ten-meter-wide ridge on the limestone hill Yanardag, which lies near Baku on the Absheron peninsula on the Caspian Sea. Today, only a handful of such natural burning natural gas wells exist in the world, most of them in Azerbaijan. Due to the large natural gas reserves under the Absheron peninsula, fires of natural origin burned there during ancient times, which historical writers such as Marco Polo reported on. Source: de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yanar_Da%C4%9F
Welcome to "The Land of Fire"! Near Baku, on the Absheron Peninsula, lies one of Azerbaijan's most fascinating natural wonders: Yanar Dağ, or "Burning Mountain." This isn't a volcano or a campfire, but a hill from which natural gas flames have been seeping and burning ceaselessly for centuries.
Legend has it that these flames were accidentally created in the 1350s when a shepherd lit a cigarette. But the history of this phenomenon goes back much further. As early as the 13th century, the famous explorer Marco Polo described the flames emerging from the ground here in his writings.
Tip for cyclists & hikers: The flames are impressive enough during the day, but after sunset, they become truly magical. The glow of the fire stands out beautifully against the dark sky, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. There are benches where you can rest and quietly enjoy this unique natural spectacle.
Yanar Dağ is worth a short detour and is easily accessible from Baku. You can reach it by car or taxi, and it's often included in tours that also visit the nearby Ateshgah Fire Temple. There are hiking trails around the burning hill, and there's a small museum where you can learn more about the geology and history of this wonder.
A visit to Yanar Dağ is a must for anyone who wants to experience Azerbaijan's deep-rooted connection with fire. It's a reminder of the forces of the earth that are so palpably present here.
Translated by Google •
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