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Anyone seeking the gateway to Hell would seem to be in the right place here at Lake Alat. Purple-coloured mist drifts through the depths of the lake – there is no more oxygen here. From a depth of 15 metres death reigns supreme in these waters. The lake “is bleeding” say the locals because of its red colouring. Extensive tunnels and caves, of which there are so many on land, are also said to exist underwater. And a terrible smell pervades the area around the lake. Cursed monks and spirits who prevent fishing in the lake are said to roam here. These sagas have their origin on the banks of the River Lech in Füssen, where the spacious cloister of St. Mang is situated. But it is not the monks who are the cause of the eerie noises. The lake is located in an east-west direction – favourable for the wind. And the “bleeding” lake itself? The sulphurous smell? Gypsum seems to be the natural explanation. It is still to be found in the subterranean layers in the steep mountain slopes. When it rains, water seeps through the cracks and crevices into the rock and flushes out the gypsum. This dissolves into its chemical components and sulphur is generated. The sulphurous water settles on the bed of the lake – ideal conditions for purple bacteria. The toxic sulphur is their source of nutrition. Wherever the red vapours rise to the surface, and the lake then “bleeds” on its surface, all life dies.