Etna Park, Regional park in eastern Sicily, Italy.
Description
Etna Park is a protected area covering 58,000 hectares that extends from lower slopes to the snow-capped summit region. It contains volcanic craters, dark lava fields, dense forests of chestnuts and birches, and alpine meadows at higher elevations.
History
The protected area was established in 1987 to safeguard the geological formations and biodiversity surrounding Europe's largest active volcano. This decision acknowledged the need to shield the landscape from intensive use while allowing sustainable activities to continue.
Culture
Communities in the lower zones have farmed wine, hazelnuts, and citrus for centuries using the nutrient-rich volcanic soil. You will notice vineyards and orchards dotting the landscape, deeply woven into daily life and local food traditions.
Practical
The park is divided into four zones, with Zone A closed to visitors to protect sensitive habitats. Zones B, C, and D allow hiking, agriculture, and other activities with varying restrictions based on proximity to the summit.
Did you know?
The area serves as a research hub for studying volcanic phenomena, with scientists examining rare plant species that thrive on lava flows of different ages. This adaptation of plant life makes it possible to understand how living things colonize volcanic ground over time.
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Mount Etna
1.7 km
Hundred Horse Chestnut
11.7 km
Valle del Bove
6.4 km
Monte Silvestri
7.5 km
Grotta del Gelo
4.6 km
Ilice Di Carrinu
10.5 km
Monte Ilice
13.3 km
Santa Maria della Provvidenza
12.3 km
Santuario di Santa Maria di Vena
12.5 km
Catania Astrophysical Observatory
8.3 km
Monte Zoccolaro
7.5 km
Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort
13.2 km
Archaeological Civic Museum "Paolo Vagliasindi"
13.4 km
San Martino
13.4 km
Villa Manganelli
13.1 km
Belvedere
12.5 km
Santa Maria delle Grazie
12.2 km
Sicilia in Miniatura
11.5 km
Santa Maria Assunta
13.4 km
Porta di San Martino
13.3 km
House of Franco Battiato
11.9 km
Municipio di Randazzo
13.3 km
Castello Svevo
13.4 km
Monastero di S. Giorgio
13.4 km
Porta Aragonese
13.4 km
Via degli Archi
13.4 km
Piazza Municipio
13.4 km
Piano dei Grilli
13.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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