Eternal flames areare one of nature’s most mysterious and captivating phenomena. These are naturally occurring fires that burn continuously for decades—or even centuries—without human intervention. Found in various parts of the world, eternal flames inspire awe not only because of their physical beauty, but also due to the intriguing science behind them.

One of the most famous eternal flames exists in Chestnut Ridge Park, New York , nestled behind a waterfall. There, a small flame flickers from within a crevice in the rock, seemingly defying logic. While many believe this flame is fed by ancient folklore or magical energy, science offers a more grounded explanation. It’s fueled by natural gas that seeps up from deep underground through cracks in the Earth’s crust.

However, what truly surprises scientists is that the rock formation in Chestnut Ridge doesn’t appear to be hot enough to produce the kind of natural gas seen there—making this flame an ongoing geological mystery.

Eternal flames can also be found in Iraq , Turkey , and India , often located at historical or religious sites. In many cultures, they symbolize purity, sacrifice, or the eternal presence of the divine. For example, the Jwala Ji temple in Himachal Pradesh, India, has hosted a flame that locals believe has burned for centuriesin Himachal Pradesh, India, has hosted a flame that locals believe has burned for centuries, drawing pilgrims from across the country.

In the modern world, eternal flames are also maintained intentionally as memorials, such as the flame at John F. Kennedy’s grave inin Arlington Cemetery, or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Paris. These flames are constantly watched and refueled, meant to remind future generations of the sacrifices made in the past.