This mountain, 11,000 feet above sea level, is snow-capped most of the year, and is the highest active volcano in Europe. What is its name?

Towering over the Italian island of Sicily, this massive stratovolcano is indeed Europe's highest and most active. Its summit elevation currently stands around 11,000 feet (3,357 meters), though this figure constantly changes due to frequent eruptive activity and crater collapses. This significant altitude is why its peak remains snow-capped for much of the year, creating a stunning contrast with the fiery geology and the warm Mediterranean climate below.

Beyond its impressive statistics, the mountain is steeped in myth and history. Ancient Greeks believed it to be the forge of Hephaestus, the god of fire and metalworking, where the Cyclops were said to craft thunderbolts for Zeus. It has one of the world's longest documented volcanic histories, with records of its powerful eruptions dating back thousands of years. It remains in a near-constant state of activity, from gentle degassing and smoke rings to dramatic lava fountains.

This constant activity, while hazardous, also brings life. The volcanic soil on the mountain's slopes is incredibly fertile, supporting extensive vineyards, orchards, and farms. This unique combination of destructive power, ancient mythology, and agricultural richness makes it one of the most studied and revered volcanoes on the planet, recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.