This mysterious well is located in the eastern desert of Yemen, a massive hole in the Earth believed to have existed for millions of years.
Residents near the Barhout Well believe that anything that comes close will be sucked in and unable to escape. In their minds, this well is enormous. In local folklore, they believe that beneath the well are tongues that emit sounds on cold nights.
The Barhout Well is situated in the desert of Yemen, near the Oman border, and is shrouded in mystery. This natural wonder is dubbed the “Hell’s Well,” located in the Al-Mahra region, measuring 30 meters wide and approximately 100 meters deep. Some believe it could be as deep as 250 meters, and no one has ever reached the bottom of the pit.
The Barhout Well was discovered by the famous British explorer Richard Burton in 1855. His visit to this enigmatic site revealed many secrets about its past and inspired further exploration into the depths of this fascinating structure. Although it has since been obstructed by debris and its depth has diminished, daring explorers can still climb down the well to discover what lies beneath its mysterious depths.
The Barhout Well is an important example of Yemen’s ancient history and culture. Its secrets await discovery—who knows what lies beneath its shadowy depths? Despite being enveloped in mystery, one thing is certain: the Barhout Well will continue to captivate explorers for many years to come.
“Hell’s Well” emitting a strange odor that humanity has yet to reach the bottom of.
A major news agency once used drones to capture stunning aerial images of this mysterious natural well. However, even when the drone hovered directly above the pit, the camera could not see deep inside because it was too dark.
Camera unable to see deep inside due to darkness.
This well is described as a place where demonic spirits are imprisoned. Therefore, it emits a smell that humans cannot bear. This has been passed down among Yemenis for generations. Although geologists recently visited the site, Yemeni officials claim they do not know what lies beneath.
“We went to observe the site and descended into the well, reaching a depth of over 50-60 meters. The strange things inside caught our attention,” said Salah Babhair, the director-general of the Mahra Geological Resources and Survey Authority. “We also discovered an unusual odor… It is puzzling.”
“It is indeed very deep, we have never reached the bottom of the well due to very little oxygen and no ventilation system,” Babhair continued.
This well smells like rotten eggs.
Nearby residents often describe a very strong foul odor emanating from it. Ammar Hashem Mohammed Osman, a soldier stationed near the well, shared: “The smell is unbearable. It smells like rotten eggs. This foul odor makes me feel sick.”
According to AFP, it is also difficult to see much at the edge of the well because sunlight cannot penetrate deep inside. Filmmakers would find it challenging to capture much when filming below. Despite the unpleasant smell, many birds frequently fly in and out of the dark shadow of this strange pit.
This well area does not receive much rain.
During summer, Yemen’s weather is generally hot and dry. However, there are rare occasions when storms can occur in the surrounding highlands. Nonetheless, this well area does not receive much rain.
For many years, stories of demons and other supernatural beings known as jinns or genies have been passed down about the well. Many locals are even afraid to mention the pit for fear of bad luck. Naturally, they certainly do not dare to approach it.
Professor Chris Fogwill from Keele University in the UK suggests that the well could be a sinkhole formed from collapsing permafrost or a sinkhole caused by eroded limestone. Some experts believe it could be a dormant supervolcano.
The Barhout Well is a fascinating archaeological wonder and an astonishing testament to Yemen’s ancient heritage. This ancient site has been part of the country’s culture for centuries, serving as a refuge for travelers and a source of folklore and mythology throughout its history. With rumors that gold artifacts may be hidden within its depths, this mysterious sinkhole invites exploration—whether it be through a guided tour or venturing down the well on your own.
Today, the Barhout Well serves as a window into Yemen’s vibrant culture and history, as well as a tourist destination for those seeking something unique and intriguing. While its secrets largely remain unknown, travelers from all over come to experience the thrill of discovering what lies at its bottom—whatever that may be.
