Vulcania

The whole complex is built on four levels, with displays too numerous to mention.

Numerous cinemas from normal to enormous, many with 3D films. Another huge screen show eruptions from all over the world with a loud mind shattering sound track. One display is devoted to Maurice and Katia Krafft and shows some fine pictures of there exploration, together with items from their collection.

There is short but spectacular trip on a bed of molten lava as it rushes through a lava cave. Another display called the lava tunnel and represents a lava cave with sound effects and a video display. There is a display showing mud pools, silica rims and dams. A huge crater with rumbling noises in the depths emits smoke. You might consider the site expensive, but as it will take most of the day to see everything I think it represents value for money. Take a packed lunch and an umbrella, or enjoy one of the many restaurants.

There is a similar park virtually next door called "Volcan á ciel ouvert". This is actually an abandoned open air quarry which has been converted into an open air museum. All kinds of volcanic features are displayed.

Text by Tony Oldham (2002). With kind permission.