Key Facts about Lake Bolsena

About Lake Bolsena:

• It is a volcanic lake located in the northern part of the province of Viterbo in the Lazio region of Italy.
• It is the largest volcanic lake in Europe, covering a total area of 113.5 sq. km.
• Its formation began 370,000 years ago following the collapse of a caldera of the Vulsini volcano, which stayed active until 104 BC.
• It is known for a strange phenomenon, known locally as “sessa”, which causes tidal-like movements in the lake.
• The two islands, Martana and Bisentina, in the southern part of the lake were formed by underwater eruptions.
• The shores of the lake are characterised by almost untouched nature, with forests, reed beds and quiet coves, as well as cultivated fields, olive groves and vineyards.
• Towns Bordering: Capodimonte and Bolsena

What is a Volcanic Lake?

• A volcanic lake is a body of water that forms within a volcanic crater, caldera, or a volcanic depression.
• These lakes can develop after a volcanic eruption when the crater or caldera left behind fills with water, either from precipitation, groundwater, or melting ice and snow.