On the volcanoTo work on the volcano, the two authors have set up cam in a small valley. From here the craters are accessible in a few minutes. Careful observations of the frequency, strength and direction of the eruptions are mandatory. Routes have to be chosen carefully in order to produce good pictures and film footage. Some places seem remarkably quiet - but are they safe? Then sudden tremor precedes an eruption. There is one about every 30 minutes. | |||
 The classical route, via Labronzo; Strombolicchio far left. |  Eruption and ash cloud, as seen from the west. |  Filming in a fumarole field. |  The sulphurous gasses are up to 100 degrees hot. |
 Fumaroles east of Sciara del Fuoco. |  In action in a dusty environment, full of fumarolic gases. |  This bomb impacted more than 100 metres from the vent. |  Taking photos of a fumarole, using a 9x12cm camera. |
 Silence - and only an occasional tremor in the ground. These pinnacles have long gone by now. |  Since only modest telephoto lenses were available, one had to go close to the target... |  Spatter got ejected at least 100 metres into the air. |  Looking like fireworks: strombolian eruption. |
 Camping in Fossetta, between Pizzo and Vancori. |  After a hard day's work near the craters... |  ...a meal helps to recover. |  And sometimes fog enforces an extended rest. |
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When asked about the risks they took, Daniel und Denis answer as follows: "Crossing the fumarole field was particularly unpleasant. Going near the craters was done only slowly, step by step. In places where bombs fell near the vents, we maintained the highest concentration and care, always trying to reimaining calm enough to evade possible dangers." Adventurous young people, full of self confidence, they were, but not without responsibility... Expeditions like this are not recommended to the casual tourist. In any case, access to Pizzo these days is only allowed in the company of an official guide!
Fotos Daniel Holzer and Denis Bertholet | |||