Mount Etna

Mount Etna is a big volcano on the island of Sicily in Italy. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the whole world. It erupts often, sending out lava and ash. People have lived near Etna for thousands of years.

A Busy Volcano

Etna has been erupting for at least 500,000 years. It has four main craters at the top that can blow out lava. Sometimes the lava flows slowly down the sides, and sometimes ash shoots high into the sky. Scientists watch it closely to keep people safe.

A map shows the bumpy shape of Mount Etna volcano.
A map shows the bumpy shape of Mount Etna volcano. (Strijbosf / Wikimedia Commons)

Life Around Etna

The ground near Etna is very rich because of old lava, so crops grow well there. Farmers grow grapes, olives, and oranges on the lower slopes. Towns and villages sit close to the volcano, and people have learned to live with it. In winter, you can even ski on Etna's snowy sides.

Fun Facts

  • Mount Etna is about 10,900 feet tall, though its height changes with eruptions.
  • It is the biggest active volcano in Europe.
  • Etna became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

Did You Know?

Ancient Greek myths said the god Hephaestus had his workshop under Mount Etna.