The devastating effects of volcano eruptions should not be underestimated. For some people, living with the constant threat of an active volcano that could blow at any time, eradicating life as you know it, is just an every day thing. Mount Merapi is one of the most active volcanos in the entire world, and its previous mega eruptions have earned it a museum dedicated to itself.

The museum building was built to resemble these great pyramids of stone and lava, with a geometric, pointy shape and a bright red entranceway that immediately sets the alarm bells ringing in our minds. As soon as you enter, you will be greeted by a low rumbling sound that reverberates around the room. Let your eyes follow the sound to a convincing replica of Mount Merapi that sits steaming, continuously producing smoke and magma. The museum is divided into several themes, such as The Merapi Volcano Trail, Man and the Mountain of Fire, Earthquake and Tsunami, Disaster Movement of Soil and many more. You will be shocked by the photos that document the largest eruptions around the world, such as the Krakatau Eruption that killed thousands and quite literally cast a shadow over Asia, US and Europe for 3 days. Seeing photos makes brings a striking reality to the photos, and it truly is heartbreaking to realize the immense suffering that volcanic eruptions can bring.

Learn about the spirit ancestors that guard the mountain, and how Mount Merapi has been geographically altered with each new eruption, evolving slightly in shape each time. Be amazed at the vintage seismometers and an actual motorbike that has been badly burnt by molten ash. Throughout the museum is a running theme; the unstoppable force of nature that is the raw power of volcanoes.