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Giacinto Platania, Catania reached by lava flows from the 1669 eruption of Etna. Fresco in the Cathedral of Catania.

The 1669 eruption of Etna: the most devastating in modern history

Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, but the 1669 eruption remains one of the most dramatic and destructive in its history. A lava flow that lasted four months, submerged entire villages and reached the city of Catania, changing the face of eastern Sicily.
Where the 1669 eruption occurred
The eruption began on March 11, 1669, with the opening of a long fracture on the southwestern flank of Etna, near Nicolosi. The lateral craters, now known as the Monti Rossi, are still visible and are a site of great interest for hikers and volcanologists.

Etna: Strombolie activity resumes in the Southeast crater on July 21, 2025

Etna returned today, * July 21, 2025 *, to show its liveliness with the resumption of the Strombolie * activity * of the Southeast crater, one of the most dynamic of the volcano. The explosions, currently sporadic and of modest intensity, are * clearly visible * from different observation points, offering a suggestive show.

Important Update – Etna Access Reopened

Access to the summit area of Mount Etna from Piano Provenzana (North side) is now permitted again, as per the new ordinance issued by the Municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia.

All our hikes are carried out in full compliance with current safety regulations, and led by certified volcanological guides constantly monitoring the volcano’s activity.

Book your safe and unforgettable experience now – explore craters, lava fields and lunar landscapes!

Departure: Piano Provenzana – Etna North

Daily tours available (reservation required)

Download the ordinance of the Municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia

The Salinelle

The Salinelle di Paternò are a unique geological site in Europe. Extremely interesting because they are linked to the internal activity of Etna and a striking expression of the dynamism of the Etna area. They can tell us whether the volcano is preparing something or not, as if to say something is cooking, and above all they represent a natural spectacle that leaves you spellbound, a developing tourist attraction.