The Most Ancient Maps of Erupting Mount Etna

Abstract

Two previously unpublished maps were retrieved during historical research concerning the historical activity of Etna depicting the eruption which started in December 1634 and continued until 1636. The two drawings, one of which is in colour and the other in ink and sepia water colour, accompany two reports by Jesuits, who were eye-witnesses to the phenomenon. The description of the volcano and the ongoing lava flows was made independently by the two Jesuits, with the help of expert local guides. These two maps represent the first cartography of active Etna hitherto known of.