Mount Etna Live Cam

The History of Mount Etna in Catania

Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily near Catania, is one of the most iconic and historically significant volcanoes in the world. Its legacy spans thousands of years, intertwining natural history, mythology, and human civilization. As Europe’s tallest active volcano, it has been both a source of destruction and renewal for the communities around it.

The history of Mount Etna begins with its formation over 500,000 years ago. Geologically, it lies on the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, a region of intense seismic activity. The volcanic activity has created a stratovolcano composed of layers of lava flows and pyroclastic materials. This dynamic structure has evolved through countless eruptions, some of which are among the most powerful recorded in history.