Laachus and Basalthasar, who have been friends ever since they met at Krufter Waldsee, rush to the Lava Dome in Mendig. An eagle owl that nests on the Wingertsbergwand has promised Laachus that he will finally find the answer to his question there.

Across 700 square meters of exhibition space, Laachus and Basalthasar discover the fascinating land of volcanoes. And then the moment finally arrives. During a guided tour through the underground lava cellars, Laachus gets the answer he’s been waiting for so long: “When gas-rich lava cools quickly, pumice is formed. The once gas-filled bubbles and cavities harden into a porous material, making pumice lighter than water. That’s why pumice can float.” Laachus and Basalthasar can hardly believe it. “So I’m a piece of pumice and was formed during the eruption of the Laacher See volcano?” – “Yes, exactly!” confirms the volcano expert, “And your friend is made of basalt and was also formed during the eruption, when the Earth’s mantle melted and the magma cooled on the Earth’s surface.”

Happy and proud, the two stone friends embrace each other. “We’re of volcanic origin!” they both cheer and decide to celebrate their birthday from now on together with Laachus’ companion Tuffany during the Night of the Volcanoes. This festival takes place every year during the last week of July and is the highlight of a week of culture and adventure around Lake Laach.

The special highlight of the celebration is a massive simulated volcanic eruption, and everyone is warmly invited to join in the festivities.

Location info:

Lava Dome and Lava Cellar, Brauerstraße 1, 56743 Mendig

Culture and Adventure Week: Night of the Volcanoes