Beautiful and Dangerous: Abandoned Salt Mines (Photo Series)

The walls of the salt caves in the Verkhnekamskoye mine in Russia’s Perm region are adorned with naturally formed, almost hypnotic patterns.

The “artist” here is carnallite, a mineral used in fertilizer production. While a few local mines remain operational, most tunnels and passages are closed. Entry into the abandoned mines is allowed only with special permission.

The mines extend deep underground, with some tunnels reaching up to 6 km in length. The underground air is dry and dehydrating. Due to the potential release of methane, hydrogen sulfide, or carbon dioxide, visiting the mines is not safe. Yet despite the danger, the breathtaking beauty continues to attract those willing to risk it for a glimpse of this underground marvel.