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Death may be daunting, but uncovering and seeking out the 'gateways' to... hell may be even more terrifying than death itself. As long as you ensure you won't 'lose consciousness' when suddenly confronted by a Satan's demon 'threat', you can rest assured to explore the gateways to the underworld with Mytour.
Whether you dare to admire from afar or must find your way there by any means necessary, it's all up to you!
1. Canote (The Abyss of Enchantment) – where 'souls' converse
Canote, also known as The Abyss of Enchantment, isn't just one of the impressive landmarks in Yucatan, Mexico; it's also known as the place where ancient Maya people (known for their predictions about doomsday) relied on carvings of Cum Hau – a Maya god who passed away, believing this to be the gateway for departed souls to enter the afterlife.
2. The Gateway to Hell inadvertently 'unlocked' by scientists
While the Maya found their underworld underwater, the gateway to hell in the village of Derweze, Turkmenistan, is a mud pit with endless flames. Unfortunately, this 'artificial' gateway to hell was created by some Soviet scientists who, while conducting geological surveys here in 1971, drilled into a gas pocket, causing the ground beneath their rig to collapse into a large crater 70 meters in diameter.
Concerned about toxic gases escaping from the crater affecting human health, scientists decided to set it on fire to prevent methane gas from escaping into the atmosphere, causing a greenhouse effect. It was initially thought that the gases would burn off within a few days, but over 40 years later, it continues to burn relentlessly, attracting curious tourists from around the world.
3. The 'haunting' path of Dark Hedges harbors... ghosts
Although the 'haunting' path of Dark Hedges is a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts in Northern Ireland, it's also the place that terrifies visitors the most, reminiscent of the eerie atmosphere of watching Sleepy Hollow. The HBO series 'Game of Thrones' has also filmed scenes here. This road is famous for being 'haunted' by the Grey Lady, who often appears at dusk. While it's not exactly a gateway to hell, just being here will make you feel like it is.
4. Visiting the... mummies that might lead us to another world
In a place filled with mummies and ancient tombs, you'll certainly feel like archaeologists are opening a gateway to the afterlife at the Luxor Temple in Egypt. Legends dating back over 3,500 years speak of a pink granite doorway found in an ancient tomb, believed to guide ancient people to and from the other world.
5. The 'Gate of Pluto' – the pathway to hell
The 'Gate of Pluto,' also known as the legendary gateway to hell, was recently discovered in Pamukkale, Turkey (formerly the ancient city of Hierapolis). Today, it's recognized as a world heritage site, yet its gateway poses a higher 'fatal' risk than ever before, even though its entrance has been sealed off. The reason being that the blocked openings still can't prevent toxic fumes from leaking out into the surrounding ruins.
6. The 'Gateway to Hell' at Hekla
It's often said that Iceland is forged from volcanoes, and indeed, there are still about 30 to 40 active volcanoes here, contributing to about one-third of the world's lava. Particularly fervent among them is Hekla, earning its reputation as the 'gateway to hell' since medieval times.
According to some records, the Hekla volcano in Iceland has been erupting vigorously since medieval times. With each eruption, it spews forth a terrifying layer of ash covering an area of nearly 40km. It's as if Hekla is bringing forth darkness from hell to the earthly realm. To date, Hekla has erupted about 20 times, causing countless severe damages, with the 1845 eruption resulting in a devastating earthquake and extensive destruction. Hence, everyone is hoping that Hekla will remain... frozen forever.
7. Repentance at the Holy Shrine of Lough Derg, Ireland
If you end your journey in Ireland with a trip here, you might feel a bit apprehensive. Although it's truly beautiful, it also means you're at the repentance site of Saint Patrick. This place for 'penance' is located on Station Island in Donegal, part of pilgrimages dating back to 445 BC. Every year, pilgrims from all over the world come here to reflect on death and repent for their actions.
8. But hell doesn't necessarily have to be terrifying places...
The city of Michigan in the US isn't actually a place with 'hair-raising' gates to hell, but in a different sense, it's also considered 'hellish'. However, you have nothing to worry about when traveling to Michigan because the 'Hell' referred to here is just an interesting small town.
According to Huffingtonpost.com
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
TravelWithEase.comMay 9th, 2014
