Sadly, forest fires have never been far from the headlines in the last few years. As the impact of climate change takes its toll and areas see record-breaking temperatures and droughts, violent blazes have flared up all over the world, from the Amazon rainforest to the streets of Los Angeles. We've rounded up history's most destructive infernos, stretching from the 19th century up to the present day.

Click through this gallery to learn about the world's worst fires – as well as why they happen...