A view from 2,800 meters up the mountain, looking toward the peak of Mount Etna. The top of the volcano is actually a series of craters. Because it erupts frequently, Etna's landscape is constantly changing. These images were taken just a few days before the most recent eruption on October 26, 2013.
Mount Etna, Sicily, during quiet time —
A view from 2,800 meters up the mountain, looking toward the peak of Mount Etna. The top of the volcano is actually a series of craters. Because it erupts frequently, Etna's landscape is constantly changing. These images were taken just a few days before the most recent eruption on October 26, 2013.
CNN
The surface of the volcano is stark, barren ... and stunning.
Desolation —
The surface of the volcano is stark, barren ... and stunning.
CNN
Rock piles are evidence of life -- of previous visitors.
There is life —
Rock piles are evidence of life -- of previous visitors.
CNN
Although steam flows from vents and craters, the main visitor area doesn't have the unpleasant sulfur smell often associated with volcanoes.
She's hot —
Although steam flows from vents and craters, the main visitor area doesn't have the unpleasant sulfur smell often associated with volcanoes.
CNN
It's possible to hike up Etna. But guided trips to the ridge of the crater -- which include cable car, 4x4 bus and a short guided walk -- take about two hours total.
Tour party —
It's possible to hike up Etna. But guided trips to the ridge of the crater -- which include cable car, 4x4 bus and a short guided walk -- take about two hours total.
CNN
Etna is Europe's tallest and most active volcano. Rather than a single crater, its peak has several. Some spots are more active than others.
Etna crater —
Etna is Europe's tallest and most active volcano. Rather than a single crater, its peak has several. Some spots are more active than others.
CNN
The volcano is open to visitors every day and closes only during dangerous eruptions.
One of Sicily's top attractions —
The volcano is open to visitors every day and closes only during dangerous eruptions.
CNN
Visitors can take a cable car to about 2,800 meters up the mountain and transfer to 4x4 vehicles.
Easy way up —
Visitors can take a cable car to about 2,800 meters up the mountain and transfer to 4x4 vehicles.
CNN
The view toward Catania is a reminder that civilization isn't too far away.
Life on Mars? —
The view toward Catania is a reminder that civilization isn't too far away.
CNN