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Mount Etna
Sicily's greatest natural attraction is also its highest mountain. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, the god of fire, and the home of the one-eyed monster known as the Cyclops. At approximately 3,350 meters, it is Europe's highest active volcano. The height of its summit changes with each eruption, and over the centuries a few lava flows have even reached the coast. There are also a number of smaller peaks on the slopes of Etna and some interesting caverns. Since Etna is a strato volcano, with relatively cool lava temperatures and numerous openings (vents), nobody ever knows precisely where on its vast surface the next eruption will be. Etna's long recorded history has proven invaluable to the world's volcanologists.
Over 1,200 square meters of Etna's surface is covered with solidified lava, yet various species of oak and stone pine, as well as birch and beech cover much of its sloped surface. Broom plant and other shrubs dot the area, especially at lower altitudes. Etna's deciduous trees change color in the Autumn creating a spectacular panoply of changing shades providing the perfect setting for breathtaking hikes in the woods during the Summer. Etna also offers skiing in the Winter months. Frogs, toads and turtles live in the streams and small ponds of Etna's forests. There are also various species of snakes and Sicily's ubiquitous lizards. Foxes, squirrels, weasels, hare, hedgehogs, porcupine and a few wild cats also consider Etna their domain. Overhead, you'll see owls, falcons, partridges and the occasional golden eagle - a Mediterranean species re-introduced here in recent years. In the Gurrida Lake area, there are herons, ducks and migratory birds. |
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