In Albania, the largest underground thermal lake in the world was discovered at the bottom of an abyss over 100 meters deep. This remarkable discovery occurred in Lake Neuron, located in the south of the country. The first identification of this lake occurred in 2021, when a team of Czech Republic investigators was exploring the area. At the time, they did not have the appropriate instruments to perform accurate measurements, which prevented the immediate confirmation of their greatness.
After three years, the investigators returned to the scene for further analysis. The team confirmed that the extension of the lake is 138 meters long and 42 meters wide, making it the largest underground thermal lake known to science.
Initial explorations in the region occurred on the border between Albania and Greece, an area that has faced political tensions for over a century. Due to this instability, the area was often beyond scientific investigations.
The vapor column and the descent to the well
While studying the region around Leskovik, the investigators noticed a large vapor column climbing from a mountainous chain. After a closer inspection, they realized that the vapor came from a deep abyss.
The descent to the well revealed an extensive system of caves, which included several thermal springs. Within this system, they found a vast lake, as explained by the expedition leader, Marek Audy, in a statement to Neuron Foundation.
An extraordinary discovery
According to, Richard Bouda, a photographer and expedition member, told Euronews that the team noticed as soon as he had “discovered something extraordinary.” The excitement generated by this discovery was palpable among team members. The new results indicated that the lake has a capacity of 8,335 cubic meters of water. To give an idea of its magnitude, this volume is equivalent to approximately 3.5 Olympic pools.
Scientific importance
The discovery of Lake Neuron is not only a scientific milestone, but also has the potential to attract tourist and scientific interest to the region. This new attraction may benefit the local economy and foster additional investigations.
In addition, underground thermal lake may be a source of information about the geology of the area and the thermal phenomena that occur in the underground. Scientists expect their exploitation to reveal secrets about the formation of the mountain and the water resources of the region.
Underground lake
This type of underground lake is rare and therefore the discovery is of great importance to the scientific community. Continuous research may contribute to a better understanding of thermal ecosystems and associated biodiversity.
Opportunities of Exploration
Researchers are enthusiastic about the possibilities of further exploring the cave system and the lake. The extension and depth of the lake offer a unique opportunity to conduct studies that could help better understand the geological and hydrological dynamics of the area.
Albania as a place of interest
With the confirmation of the greatness of Lake Neuron, Albania solidifies its position as a place of interest to science and natural exploitation. This type of discoveries can help map less studied regions and enrich knowledge about the planet’s natural resources.
New scientific revelations and preservation of the natural treasure
Finally, as more investigations are carried out, the team expects other aspects of the lake and the cave system to be revealed. Each new discovery can add pieces to the puzzle of the region’s geological history and its importance in the global context.
In progress research promises not only new scientific revelations, but also the preservation of this natural treasure. The importance of protecting and studying these areas is essential to ensure sustainability and environmental conservation.
This discovery represents a significant milestone in geological exploitation and offers new opportunities for study and understanding of natural resources. The next steps of the investigation promise to bring to light even more information about this fascinating natural phenomenon.
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