MOUNT ETNA
The name Etna derives from the ancient
Greek Aetna. During the Middle Ages the
volcano has gained another name: Mongibello,
which derives from the Italian “monte”
(mountain), and the Arabic “djebel”
which has the same meaning.
Besides being an active volcano, it is also
a high peak at the centre of the Mediterranean
sea, much higher than all the other Sicilian
peaks (the second highest peak after Mount
Etna is Pizzo Carbonara in the Madonie,
at 1979 m.). The climate is therefore different
at its varying altitudes and exposures;
nevertheless, it is homogenously Mediterranean,
even at the highest summit, where it scarcely
rains during the summer period. The eastern
side, directly affected by the low pressure
from the Jonio sea, is much more humid.
The eruptions are characterised by explosions
from the craters or volcanic dents which
regularly open up close to the summit and
are mainly effusive and spectacular. The
lava usually affects only the highest parts
of the volcano. In the last 5 years the
volcanic activity has been relentless and
only at the summit; this activity could
continue for many years, and it will lead
to a lateral, less frequent and more dangerous
eruption. For its important naturalistic,
geological and environmental meaning, Mount
Etna is a Natural Park. In Greek mythology,
Etna was considered as God Volcano’s
kitchen and home to the Cyclops, enormous
giants with only one eye (Ulysses had something
to do with them).
Excursions and other activities
