10 Inspiring Forgotten Ruins Reclaimed By Nature

Forgotten Ruin In Mexico: San Juan Parangaricutiro

In 1943, the Parícutin volcano erupted in the Mexican state of Michoacán, marking the beginning of eight years of devastating volcanic action. During this period, the small village of San Juan Parangaricutiro was swallowed up by lava.

Fortunately, the people who lived in the town had time to escape, but the settlement was ruined. However, homes and many other public structures were buried beneath a carpet of lava. Interestingly, the village church remained remarkably whole.

The townspeople eventually built a new church elsewhere, but the original holy edifice still stands proudly in the volcanic landscape. Its exterior is half-buried by the lava field, and many locals believe the church’s lucky escape was because of an act of God.

But whatever the explanation may be, the astonishing forgotten ruin is preserved for locals and tourists alike, who can usually view the structure on an independent or guided hike.