Vromoner, Albania — A significant scientific breakthrough has emerged from southern Albania, where researchers have located what is believed to be the world’s largest underground thermal lake. This remarkable body of water, known as Lake Neuron, may redefine our understanding of subterranean ecosystems and geological dynamics.
Originally identified by a team of Czech scientists in 2021, Lake Neuron lies within the picturesque Vromoner Valley, close to the Albania-Greece border. The lake stretches approximately 138.3 meters (452.8 feet) in length and 42 meters (137.8 feet) in width. With a total perimeter of 345 meters (1,131.9 feet), it houses around 8,355 cubic meters of water—roughly equivalent to three Olympic-sized swimming pools. This substantial size and depth firmly establish the lake’s position as the largest of its kind globally.
The expedition that led to this stunning revelation began when researchers observed a towering column of steam rising from a concealed abyss. This phenomenon guided them to a 100-meter-deep (328 feet) chasm they dubbed “Atmos.” At the bottom, they encountered the thermal lake, paired with a thermal inflow. Utilizing cutting-edge technology such as a mobile LIDAR scanner, the team was able to meticulously chart the cave system and verify the lake’s measurement with precision.
Richard Bouda, a photographer who participated in the expedition, conveyed the excitement of the initial exploration. “We created a foundational map using our equipment and quickly realized we had stumbled upon something truly exceptional,” he remarked. The advanced tools they employed enabled them to create a comprehensive 3D model of the area, revealing previously unseen geological features.
The waters of Lake Neuron are rich in minerals, heavily saturated with hydrogen sulfide, which oxidizes when exposed to the atmosphere, resulting in sulfuric acid formation. This acid gradually erodes the surrounding limestone, promoting the ongoing development of soft gypsum. Researchers speculate that this natural process could facilitate the emergence of new caves and formations over the coming years.
Marek Audy, the expedition leader, expressed the discovery’s potential significance: “This finding could greatly advance our knowledge of subterranean ecosystems and geological mechanisms.” The team is enthusiastic about future research endeavors, particularly concerning the connections between underground water systems and surface water bodies. Bouda highlighted the broader implications of their work: “We expect this discovery will aid in environmental protection efforts while enhancing our understanding of hydrological exchanges, which have remained poorly understood until now.”
With the revelation of Lake Neuron, Albania has garnered global recognition as a valuable site for geological and hydrological research. The country’s abundant, largely uncharted underground caves and thermal springs position it as a promising frontier for subsequent scientific inquiries.
International scientific communities are already taking notice of this discovery, with organizations like National Geographic expressing interest in the findings. Monika Řasa Vondráková, director of the Neuron Foundation, took pride in supporting the pioneering research efforts. “I’m immensely proud that we could assist Czech scientists in this groundbreaking endeavor,” she stated. “This success illustrates the critical importance of supporting grassroots scientific endeavors, where research and dedication yield transformative insights.”
As researchers continue their exploration of this subterranean marvel, the implications for environmental science and geological understanding are bound to expand, illuminating the hidden wonders of Albania’s underground landscapes.