Sunlit nights: Mayon Volcano

In the south-eastern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines, stands the beautiful, lonely mountain - Mayon Volcano. It is an active volcano that is almost perpetually in a state of eruptive activity. Its most lethal eruption took place about 200 years ago, in 1814, when it burned the town of Cagsawa to dust and stone. The ruins of Cagsawa are still the best place to see Mount Mayon, giving an almost unhindered view of the mountain slopes and summit. After the eruption, a new town and church were built at Daraga nearby.

Mount Mayon is visible from almost everywhere in Legazpi city. Rice fields, pines and coconut trees surround the mountain on three sides, while the fourth slope gradually reaches down to a black sand beach and the sea. Mayon is a shy mountain during the day, being shrouded in clouds, which collect and stay near the perfect conical summit, giving the appearance of steam coming out of its crater.