Mount Etna is a large active volcano located on the island of Sicily that towers over the city of Catania. It frequently erupts through mild explosions, ash plumes, and fast moving lava flows up to several kilometers long. Spectacular lava fountains are also commonly seen erupting from its summit craters. The summit area contains multiple active craters that have erupted in recent years, including the main craters and those located to the northeast and southeast. Lava flows often emerge from fissures on the volcano's flanks, leaving many smaller volcanic cones in the surrounding landscape.