The volcano known for near-continuous eruptions and called the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean” is Stromboli. It forms one of the Aeolian Islands off the northern coast of Sicily, Italy, and its persistent nighttime bursts have long served as a natural beacon for sailors.
Stromboli has displayed almost continuous activity for at least 2,000 years. Its typical eruptions consist of small explosions that eject incandescent fragments and ash from summit vents every few minutes to several hours. This pattern gave its name to “Strombolian” eruptions, a term now used worldwide for mild, intermittent explosive activity.
The volcano is not harmless simply because its usual eruptions are small. Lava overflows can occur, and occasional paroxysms are far more powerful. Lava commonly travels down the Sciara del Fuoco, a horseshoe-shaped depression on the island’s northwest side. A common mix-up is Mount Etna, Sicily’s much larger volcano: Etna is highly active, but Stromboli is the one specifically associated with the Mediterranean lighthouse nickname and the Strombolian eruption style.