TERRITORY

Linguaglossa Etna Nord , 550 m above sea level


Linguaglossa is a territory of contrast. Lava flows from 1190 and the surrounding evolving landscape of flows from the eighteen century to 1990 and further 2000.
The aim of the project is to think about the landscape of Linguaglossa from the departure points of key contemporary art destinations scattered on the territory of Etna.  The project narrates the development of Palazzo Previtera as  the center of Linguaglossa built on the lava quarry owned by the church of Saint Gilles to  find other key locations devoted to contemporary art based on the foothills of Mt. Etna.
Output of the project: Shared itinerary for contemporary art, design, artist studios and vineyards with a public art program envisioned to involve the local community, including workshops and collective performances.


Description


Linguaglossa lies in the "volcanic belt" of Etna's active zones. The region is characterized by steep slopes, volcanic rock formations, and vast expanses of lava fields. Due to its location on the northern side of the volcano, the terrain is shaped by frequent lava flows that spread outward from the summit craters. The unique conditions of the mountain—high altitude, volcanic ash-rich soil, and a favorable climate—have made the area one of the most distinctive agricultural regions in Italy.

Historical excursus

Mount Etna has experienced numerous eruptions and lava flows in the last two centuries. Some of the most significant events affecting the region near Linguaglossa include:
  1. 1823 Lava Flow: This eruption was one of the most significant early 19th-century events. Lava flows from the northeastern side of the volcano reached as far as the area near Linguaglossa, causing destruction to nearby farms and settlements.
  2. 1947 Lava Flow: Another important eruption occurred in 1947, when a major lava flow descended from the northeastern craters of Mount Etna. The flow came dangerously close to Linguaglossa, but the village itself was spared. However, the surrounding agricultural land was heavily impacted.
  3. 1971 Lava Flow: In 1971, a large eruption sent lava flows down the slopes of the volcano, reaching the southern part of Linguaglossa. This eruption was accompanied by explosive activity and significant ash fallout, which affected both local communities and the region’s agricultural output.
  4. 1983 Lava Flow: A particularly destructive eruption took place in 1983. Lava flows erupted from the summit craters, threatening both Linguaglossa and other nearby villages. The lava flow stopped just short of the town, but the damage to farmland and infrastructure was extensive. This eruption also generated ash clouds that impacted air travel.
  5. 2002-2003 Lava Flows: A series of eruptions took place between 2002 and 2003, with large lava flows coming from the southeastern and northeastern craters. These flows caused significant damage to agricultural land in the area, but the town of Linguaglossa itself was spared from direct destruction.
  6. 2011 Lava Flow: A notable eruption in 2011 resulted in lava flows that reached the lower slopes of Mount Etna. While the town of Linguaglossa was not directly affected, the lava flows came within a few kilometers of the village. The eruption also produced ash clouds that impacted local air traffic and affected the health of residents for a brief period.


Despite the periodic threats, the area remains an essential part of Etna's volcanic ecosystem and retains its agricultural and scenic significance.


Lorem Ipsum...






SARP 



© 2025 SARP Art Gallery & Residency
P.IVA 06153560872 

SICILY ETNA NORTH



Via D. Alighieri 22 Linguaglossa 95015


ACCESSIBILITY POLICY

STAY IN TOUCH

→ Newsletter
→ Email
→ Instagram

2024—ETNA ♡