Etna: Reading Landscapes, Risks and Heritage in a Volcanic Region

About

This 5-day in-the-field summer school explores Mt. Etna as a living laboratory where geology, heritage, and international policy converge. Participants will investigate volcanic landscapes and hazards, analyze how societies adapt and thrive in risky environments, and connect field observations to global frameworks of risk reduction, heritage protection, and sustainability.

With partners from diverse fields of expertise, the course offers a unique opportunity to combine field immersion with interdisciplinary collaboration, while developing applied skills for future academic and professional paths

Course leader

Dr. Joël Ruch, Dr. Lucas Vimpere

Target group

The summer school is open to Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, and junior professionals. No prior knowledge or qualifications are required

Course aim

Learn to read and interpret volcanic landscapes.
Understand the geology and geomorphology of Etna and its surroundings.
Identify natural hazards (eruptions, lava flows, earthquakes, landslides).
Explore risk, mitigation strategies, and resilience in volcanic regions.
Recognize the benefits of living near an active volcano (fertile soils, agriculture, tourism, identity).
Connect geology and geomorphology with the historical, cultural, and archaeological heritage of Etna

Fee info