The History and Mystery of Yemen's 'Well of Hell'

Atlas Obscura ^ | October 20, 2021 | Sarah Durn

[SunkenCiv]

On the far eastern edge of Yemen, far from any cities or well-traveled roads, there's a black mark in the desert, like a giant eye peering up from the earth. Regardless of how uncanny it looks from above, it is a natural phenomenon, a perfectly round and profoundly deep sinkhole called the Well of Barhout, or the "Well of Hell." It's easy to see why. Without the help of wings or long ropes, anything that disappears into this 367-foot-deep hole is not going to come out.

For centuries, sinister legends have swirled around the Well of Barhout. It's said that visiting or even talking about it can bring bad luck. It's also said to be a prison for uncontrollable jinn, a range of spirits that haunt Islamic mythology. The jinn, according to legend, will claim the head of anyone brave (or foolish) enough to descend to the bottom. "Yes, [locals] always told us about that," says geologist and caver Mohammad Al-Kindi... But despite all those warnings, Al-Kindi says he didn't feel any trace of fear before he recently became the first person to descend to the bottom (and come back up). His head remains attached to his body...

In total, the team spent around four to five hours exploring the bottom of the sinkhole. There are "loads of beautiful cave deposits," says Al-Kindi, including stalagmites, stalactites, and even cave pearls (formed the same way stalagmites do, except in the presence of flowing water) gleaming beneath underground waterfalls. "It also has its own kind of ecosystem," says Al-Kindi, with toads, snakes, beetles, birds, and lizards. For Al-Kindi, the whole experience was "quite spectacular."

[Some Fat Guy in L.A.]

So the butthole of the world is in muslim territory. Makes sense.

[Red Badger]

The Well of Souls.........................

[Red Badger]

Lake DeFuniak

lake of the United States of America

Located in the heart of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Lake DeFuniak is a rare and fascinating natural attraction. It is one of only two almost perfectly round, spring-fed lakes in the world, the other being Kingsley Lake.

Geological Characteristics

Lake DeFuniak covers an area of approximately 38.64 acres (15.64 ha) and has a maximum depth of 74 feet (23 m). Its unique circular shape is attributed to its geological formation, which dates back millions of years. The lake’s spring-fed waters are crystal clear, with an average depth of 6 feet (1.8 m).

Historic Significance

The lake is situated at the center of DeFuniak Springs’ Historic District, which features numerous beautifully preserved homes from the 1800s and early 1900s. The town’s history is deeply tied to the railroad, and Lake DeFuniak was once a popular stop along the L&N Railroad route. The New York Chautauqua program, which ran from 1885 to 1922, also played a significant role in the town’s development and attracted thousands of visitors to DeFuniak Springs.

Recreational Activities

Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities around the lake, including:

Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding (electric motors only)

Boating (boat ramp located next to Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood)

Amphitheater seating up to 2,000 people (available for events and rentals)

Conservation Efforts

The City of DeFuniak Springs and local organizations have implemented conservation measures to protect the lake’s unique ecosystem and natural beauty. These efforts include habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and invasive species management.

Visiting Lake DeFuniak

Lake DeFuniak is open to the public and offers a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can stroll around the lake’s walking path, take in the historic architecture, and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique wonder.

[SunkenCiv]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFpn3Cv2CE4

[SunkenCiv]

Thanks. I had my lake defuniaked, had to, it had become infested with funiaks.