History
Pinatubo is one of 22 active volcanoes in the Philippines. Radiometric dating suggests that Pinatubo has been active for more than 1.1 million years.
Significance
Pinatubo is a sacred site to the Aetas, a semi-nomadic tribe that lives around the volcano. The Aetas believe that their supreme god, Apo na Mallari, lives on the volcano.
1991 Eruption
The most recent major eruption of Pinatubo began on April 2, 1991, preceded by a series of large earthquakes. The eventual magma eruption released more than 20 billion tons of sulfur dioxide, making it the second-largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. More than 20,000 people were displaced.
After the 1991 Eruption
After the 1991 eruption, a crater lake formed in the collapsed volcano. A new lava dome began to grow in the lake, forming an island.
Travel to Pinatubo
Visitors to Mount Pinatubo can trek to the lava fields on the lower slopes of the volcano, or make the 4,872-foot climb to the crater. Flights to the crater in small aircraft are also available.
Article Written By Hailey Williams
Hailey Williams is a freelance writer and editor from Los Angeles, California. She has a particular interest in culture, lifestyle, health, and women's interest reporting, and her work has been published in magazines including TV Week and Sugar. She graduated from the University of Sydney.
