In the border region between Yemen and Oman lies a massive sinkhole known as the “Well of Hell,” or officially, the Well of Barhout. Located in the desert of Al-Mahra province, this natural wonder has been shrouded in mystery and local folklore for centuries. The sinkhole boasts a circular opening approximately 30 meters (98 feet) in diameter and plunges to a depth of about 112 meters (367 feet).
Local legends speak of the Well of Hell as a prison for demons, with tales of foul odors emanating from its depths reinforcing these beliefs. For generations, the sinkhole remained unexplored due to its ominous reputation and the fear it instilled in nearby communities.
On September 21, 2021, a team from the Oman Cave Exploration Team (OCET), led by geologist Mohammed al-Kindi, became the first to descend to the bottom of the sinkhole. Using a pulley system, eight members of the team were lowered into the depths while two remained at the surface.
Contrary to local myths, the explorers found no supernatural entities. Instead, they discovered a variety of natural features, including stalagmites, cave pearls formed by dripping water, and several species of snakes. The presence of snakes was notable, as they appeared to thrive in the isolated environment of the sinkhole.
The team also observed waterfalls within the sinkhole, created by water seeping through the porous upper layers of rock and cascading down to the less permeable layers below. These waterfalls contribute to the unique ecosystem within the sinkhole.
Despite the scientific findings, many locals continue to view the Well of Hell with apprehension, associating it with misfortune and attributing events such as the ongoing civil unrest in Yemen to its ominous presence.
The exploration of the Well of Hell not only demystifies a long-standing natural enigma but also highlights the importance of scientific inquiry in challenging and understanding local legends and fears.
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ref : phys
