What Is the Oldest Volcano in the World?

Mt. Etna is considered the oldest volcano in the world. Its first recorded eruption took place around 1500 B.C.E. Since that date, the volcano is believed to have erupted an additional 190 times.

Located in Italy, Mt. Etna is one of the largest volcanoes on any continent. Throughout history, the mountain has experienced the largest eruptions of any continental volcano in the world. In mythology, Mt. Etna is associated with the forge of Vulcan and the home of the Cyclopes as well as the giant Enceladus. Mt. Etna sometimes is confused with Mt. Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed the city of Pompeii in 79 C.E.