A powerful eruption column rises above the summit of Vesuvius in this painting of the June 1794 eruption, viewed from Naples. This eruption was the most powerful at Vesuvius since 1631. Several towns were completely destroyed, and 400 people were killed. After the eruption the height of Vesuvius was lowered by 121 m, leaving a 2.2-km wide and 150 m deep crater. The 1794 eruption occurred at the end of an eruptive period that began in 1783 and included paroxysmal effussive phases in 1785-1787 and 1790.

From the collection of Maurice and Katia Krafft.

Copyrighted image used with permission. All Rights Reserved. Contact photographer for any usage requests.

Galleries: Volcano Art

Vesuvius