Gates Of Hell

In the world today, it seems that no matter how our traditions or cultures differ, many people in the world have a belief in a supreme being who resides above us, and many believe that their is also an opposite being who resides below us. Many places have their mythos about how to access this lower realm, but what if it were true? What if there were areas on this planet that were the Gates to Hell?

The places I’ll discuss here today are by no means an inclusive list, this is merely a small portion or locations that are claimed to be a gate. Whether they are or not is entirely your decision, but if you attempt to venture to these areas, please proceed with caution as some areas may not be safe, open, or legally accessible.

Pluto’s Gate: Located in the ancient city of Hierapolis, near Pamukkale in modern Turkey. This location was discovered in 1965 by Italian archeologists. The site sits on top of a cave that emits toxic gases. The cavern still emits toxic fumes, so accessing the inside of the cave is not suggested. Please understand that this site is still being studied by archeologists and may be off limits.

Fengdu County, People’s Republic of China: Fengdu Ghost City is a large complex of shrines, temples, and monasteries, dedicated to the afterlife. You will find the city to consist of numerous buildings, structures, and statues related to Diyu and Naraka from Chinese and Buddhist mythology about the underworld or hell. According to legend the dead must pass three tests before passing to the next life; the Bridge of Helplessness, where you are tested for Good and Evil. Ghost Torturing Pass, where they present themselves for judgement. The third test is done at the entrance to Tianzi Palace where the dead must stand on a certain stone, on one foot for three minutes. Legend states a virtuous person will pass, and an evil person will fail. Would you pass the tests?

Hellam Township, Pennsylvania: There are two versions of an urban legend surrounding Hellam Township. Both versions, eccentric doctor, or burnt insane asylum, agree that there are seven gates in a wooded area in Hellam Township. Anyone who passes through all seven will go straight to Hell. This hasn’t been fully proven that either legend is true, and the location of the gates is also based on interpretation. If you go exploring the area, be respectful of residents and be sure to get permission before going onto private property.

Derweze, Turkmenistan: In 1971 Soviet geologists tapped into a cavern filled with natural gas. A fire was started, it was a local Soviet decision to avoid poisonous gas discharge. Geologists had hoped the gas would have burned off in a few days, but the fires continue to burn 50 years later. Local have dubbed this area, “Door to Hell”.

Whether you believe these places or others actually are gates to Hell or the underworld or not, it’s nice to learn of new things and explore new areas. Let me know if you have been to any of these places, or other “Gates of Hell” that you can share with me!

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