The volcano covers a surface area of approximately 1,200 square kilometres (460 square miles) and has a base circumference of about 150 kilometres (93 miles). The highest point on Etna is the south-east crater, which has an elevation of 3,329 metres (10,922 feet) above sea level. However, the height of Etna fluctuates frequently due to volcanic eruptions and collapses.
Mount Etna is a stratovolcano, which is formed by alternating layers of lava and ash. The lava flows from Etna are predominantly basaltic in nature and are often very fluid, flowing quickly over the landscape. The ash and lapilli produced by Etna are fine-grained and can reach great heights during eruptions.
The volcano has many eruptive vents and fissures, and it erupts frequently. Eruptions can last from a few weeks to several months, and sometimes even years. The eruptions are often accompanied by loud explosions, lightning, and ash plumes.
Etna is a major tourist destination, and it is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. There are several villages and towns located on the slopes of the volcano, and visitors can also hike up the mountain or go on a guided tour.