Etna
If the typical light-colored limestone marking the Sicilian landscapes is suddenly replaced by the black lava blocks, be sure you are in the surroundings of the Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, measuring 250 km in perimeter. It is surrounded by the Simeto River to the south, the Alcantara River to the north and the stretch of Ionian coast going from Riposto to Catania. The volcano is 3346m high and is still active. It is amazing near to the coast. So, within an hour, the typical vegetation of the coast changes into the mountain one. The visitors will pass from fish to mushrooms and chestnuts, from the sea to the snow, from water sports to Nordic sports.
It was formed about 500,000 years ago by the build-up of materials (fragments, dust, lava) expelled from the center of the earth. To date it has four mouths at the top (Bocca Nuova, Centrale, Sud-est, Nord-est) and a number of vents on the slopes.
The locals call it “u Mungibeddu” or simply “a Montagna”, meaning that the Mount Etna dominates the surroundings in such a striking way, that it is referred to as The Scenery. Its presence has influenced the territory and the activities over the centuries. Where lava flows have recently covered the soil, it appears like a desert. But in the long run lava turns out to be an outstanding fertilizer, changing the arid soil into a verdant garden. Hence the contrasting landscapes: desolate areas are side by side to haven rich in plants and animals, supporting a wide range of species. This outstanding variety of flora and fauna is safeguarded thanks to the Etna Garden Park, established in 1987. It extends from the peak of the volcano (3323) to the lower slopes. Inside the park visitors find recommended itineraries for excursions leading up to the peak. In winter they can live the breathtaking experience of skiing on the “belly” of the volcano, enjoying the panorama over Catania and the sea.
The volcano has exerted a strong influence on “its” people. The millennial presence of the mount, which constantly makes people cope with the dangers of impending eruptions, but which results in wealth and fertility as well, has moulted a particular relationship. The locals look at the Volcano with a variety of feelings, merging love and hate, fear and sense of respect.
The volcano was believed a god by the locals who created myths and legends to exorcise the impending danger. However, it has been deeply loved and always considered a good giant despite the dangers it caused and still threatens to cause (the eruption in 1689 destroyed parts of Catania).
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