Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Natural Heritage Protection Fund
Volcanoes of Kamchatka, Russia
Volcanoes of the Kamchatka Region (VolcanoWorld)
Greenpeace Russia
Protectedplanet.net
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1996
Size of heritage: 3,830,200 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 158,500°
Latitude: 56,333°
Summary
This is one of the most outstanding volcanic regions in the world, with a high density of active volcanoes, a variety of types, and a wide range of related features. The six sites included in the serial designation group together the majority of volcanic features of the Kamchatka peninsula. The interplay of active volcanoes and glaciers forms a dynamic landscape of great beauty. The sites contain great species diversity, including the world's largest known variety of salmonoid fish and exceptional concentrations of sea otter, brown bear and Stellar's sea eagle.
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Volcanoes of Kamchatka
The Volcanoes of Kamchatka is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Russian Far East. This site is renowned for its exceptional volcanic activity and stunning natural landscapes, making it a unique and significant place of global importance.
History
The history of the Volcanoes of Kamchatka dates back millions of years when the Kamchatka Peninsula was formed through intense volcanic activity. The region is home to over 300 volcanoes, 29 of which are still active today. The first recorded eruption in Kamchatka occurred in 1697, and since then, the area has experienced numerous volcanic events, shaping the landscape and creating a diverse range of volcanic features.
Due to its remote location, the Kamchatka Peninsula remained relatively unexplored until the 18th century when Russian explorers began to venture into the region. The first scientific studies of the volcanoes were conducted in the 19th century, providing valuable insights into the geological processes and unique ecosystems that developed around the volcanic activity.
Current State
The Volcanoes of Kamchatka is a site of immense natural beauty and scientific significance. The diverse volcanic features found in the area include stratovolcanoes, shield volcanoes, calderas, and geothermal fields. The highest peak in Kamchatka, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, stands at an impressive 4,750 meters and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
The volcanic activity in Kamchatka has shaped the surrounding landscapes, creating a variety of ecosystems that support a rich biodiversity. The site is home to numerous plant and animal species, including several endemic and endangered species. The volcanic soils provide fertile ground for unique vegetation, and the surrounding waters are teeming with marine life.
The Volcanoes of Kamchatka also hold great cultural significance for the indigenous communities that have inhabited the region for centuries. The local indigenous people, such as the Itelmen, Koryak, and Even, have developed a deep spiritual connection with the volcanoes, considering them sacred and incorporating them into their cultural practices and beliefs.
Despite its remote location and harsh climate, the Volcanoes of Kamchatka attracts a significant number of tourists and scientists each year. The area offers opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation, allowing visitors to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the volcanic landscapes up close.
However, the fragile ecosystems and unique geological formations of the Volcanoes of Kamchatka are vulnerable to various threats. Climate change, illegal poaching, and unregulated tourism pose challenges to the preservation of this World Heritage site. Efforts are being made to protect the area through the establishment of national parks and nature reserves, as well as the implementation of sustainable tourism practices.
The Volcanoes of Kamchatka is a remarkable testament to the Earth's geological history and a living laboratory for the study of volcanic processes. Its outstanding natural beauty and scientific value make it a site of global importance, deserving its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
Less relevant cities
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.