Vesuvius National Park

It is a large volcanic complex called Somma-Vesuvius, which was founded in 1995: Monte Somma is an ancient volcanic mass, created by continued eruptive cycles over 25,000 years and Vesuvius is a live volcano located within the ancient caldera. The Vesuvius Gran Cone has origins during the various eruptions, and  which has been in the recent centuries the pressure valve of the volcano. In fact, historical testimonies tell us that the Grand Cone was not the only vent to exhale gas, to expel pyroclastic materials, magma or ashes, but the volcanic complex had more sources of release. The great volcanic complex is a typical example of a fenced volcano: the Monte Somma is the steep rim surrounding Vesuvius on the whole northern side, while the south side is exposed to the land below. The ridge of Monte Somma is formed by jagged peaks called "Cognoli" by locals, while its surface is covered by groove valleys locally called "Lagni". The caldera diameter is 15 km and includes the Great Cone and Giant Valley splitted in the Hell Valley and Horse Atrium. The vegetation is particularly rich here and indigenous species are sheltered by the two mountainous structures.