Over 30 inactive volcanic craters are located in Valle de Santiago, but only 7 of those are recognized, and protected as they have been declared a national monument. The seven volcanic craters are known as
Siete Luminarias and include Cíntora, Hoyas de Santa Rosa, La Alberca, San Nicolás de Parangueo, Blanca, Estrada, Álvarez and Solís. Many of these craters naturally evolved into crater-lakes, and they would later become recreational spots. La Alberca, which translates to "the pool", was once an abundant lake that just over 40 years ago was filled with fresh water, but due to human activity has now dried up and been populated with cacti and shrubs. One of the biggest factors for the current state of these now dried crater lakes is the over extraction of groundwater for both water supply and irrigation. The government has banned groundwater extraction and they are making various efforts to conserve the condition of these seven craters and prevent further damage. Since the Siete Luminarias are essential for agriculture and wildlife, there is a large amount of effort being pushed towards their preservation. ==Climate==