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Its ever-changing landscape, characterized by craters, lava flows, and forests, bears witness to the extraordinary volcanic activity that has shaped the region for millennia.
Etna is also rich in biodiversity, hosting a variety of plant and animal species that have adapted to this unique environment. It is a natural laboratory that provides valuable opportunities for scientific research and the study of volcanic phenomena.
In addition to its natural aspects, Mount Etna holds strong cultural and historical significance for the local population. Its presence has influenced traditions, legends, and mythologies, becoming an integral part of Sicilian identity.
Including Mount Etna in the World Heritage list emphasizes the need to preserve this extraordinary ecosystem and recognizes its importance for the scientific community, culture, and the identity of Sicily, encouraging respect and conservation of this natural gem.
Mount Etna is the majestic active volcano that symbolizes Sicily worldwide. Located in the province of Catania on the eastern coast of the island, Mount Etna is the largest active volcano in Europe and one of the tallest in the world. Since 2013, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. This complex stratovolcano is constantly evolving due to eruptions and dominates the surrounding landscape.
The surroundings of Mount Etna offer a variety of breathtaking landscapes, ranging from the coast along the Ionian Sea to countryside areas with citrus orchards and vineyards, passing through dense chestnut and oak forests, and reaching the rugged areas near the volcano's summit. Inside the Etna Regional Park Nature Reserve on the volcano's eastern slope, you'll find deep canyons and the Grotta del Gelo, where a perennial glacier has formed.
The Valle del Bove is one of the most striking areas within the reserve, a vast volcanic depression located on the eastern side. Mount Etna's origins date back to submarine eruptions around 500,000 years ago, which also formed the Catania Plain.
The volcano has a long history of eruptions, with over 135 events recorded in antiquity. Some of the most significant eruptions include those in 1329, 1381, and the catastrophic eruption of 1669, which reached the sea and impacted the city of Catania. In more recent times, the eruptions in 1910 led to the formation of 23 new craters. Mount Etna is recognized as the most active volcano in Europe.
Today, Mount Etna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique features, including ash, craters, caves, and lava flows. This volcano is also a significant hub for international research in the fields of volcanology, geology, and other earth sciences.
Excursions on Mount Etna are highly popular, with numerous natural trails accessible to everyone for enjoying unforgettable vistas. Adventure enthusiasts can try trekking on Mount Etna or explore the volcano on mountain bikes. Additionally, skiing on Mount Etna is an extraordinary experience, with skiing facilities between 1910 and 2700 meters in Nicolosi and between 1800 and 2317 meters in Piani di Provenzana - Linguaglossa.
