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19. Vulcano-Infoplattform (Volcano Information Platform): Cheeky peaks

19. Vulcano-Infoplattform (Volcano Information Platform): Cheeky peaks

  • Vulcano-Infoplattform
  • Vulcano-Infoplattform

Did you know that there are more than a hundred volcanic 'peaks' in the Eifel region?

The Hohe Acht (Mount Hohe Acht - 747 metres) and the Ernstberg (Mount Ernstberg - 699 metres) rise higher than all the others above the surface of the land. The Vulcano-Infoplattform lookout tower offers a magnificent panorama. What we now see as a flat plateau is the remains of a mountain range which was once thrown up and folded by immense natural forces. But even a mountain range does not last for ever - it was worn down over millions of years until only a plateau was left. Then came the time for new peaks to form: As the Alps were pushed together and folded upwards, this caused a disturbance in the Eifel as well. In the Earth's crust, fault zones were created, where magma could rise up. Eifel volcanoes formed on top of the old mountain remnant.

There were two major phases of volcanic activity in the Eifel, which left behind deposits of tuff, basalt and volcanic ashes. These deposits now appear as elevations in the landscape. Also the basalt of the Steineberger Ley, on which the Vulcano-Infoplattform stands, is the remains of a volcano which cheekily settled on top of the old massif.

 

Highlights

19. Vulcano-Infoplattform (Volcano Information Platform): Cheeky peaks