You cannot say you have truly visited Etna if you have not observed the immensity of the Valle del Bove.
The Valle del Bove and the history of the stratovolcano
The Valle del Bove is a huge depression on the eastern flank of the volcano which was created, according to the latest studies by the INGV, about 10000 years ago as a result of the collapse of some older volcanic buildings. Caldera, this is the scientific name, it is 5 km wide and 7 long and with its extension it covers almost the entire eastern side of the volcano. Its walls are up to 1000 meters high.
These characteristics make it a true colossus of nature. There are some theories about its creation, the most accredited according to scientists is that it is the result of the collapse of one of the Etna volcanic buildings (the Trifoglietto), which is estimated to have been much higher than the current volcano. Inside the Valle del Bove, whose toponym is of unknown origin, but it is likely that it could depend on the fact that in the past the prairie at the bottom of the valley hosted grazing animals. Today, however, most of the Etna lava flows converge inside the Caldera, making it a place of raw beauty, so from its edges, a panoramic point of passage for many of our excursions on the volcano, it is often possible to admire the volcanic activity.
HIKING NOTES: The Valle del Bove can be reached on various paths, mainly by trekking or alternatively by car from some panoramic points located lower down. The trekking routes are almost all of medium difficulty.
Some tours that can include a visit to Valle del Bove:
