Mount Etna is Europe's largest and most active volcano, located on the island of Sicily in Italy. It has been continuously erupting since 2001, with varying styles of eruption including explosive explosions and large lava flows. Over 25% of Sicily's population lives on Etna's slopes and the volcano is an important source of agriculture and tourism. Major eruptions have occurred throughout its history, with the most powerful in 1669 producing lava flows over 10 miles long. Eruptions continue today and pose hazards through ash clouds, lava flows, and earthquakes. Attempts have been made to divert lava flows threatening towns.