Overview of European Volcanoes: From Etna to Vesuvius

Historical Volcanic Eruptions in Europe

Théra (Santorini), around 1600 BC

The Minoan eruption of Théra is one of the most colossal in human history. A cataclysmic phreatoplinian explosion destroyed most of the island, creating the iconic submerged caldera of Santorini. This eruption may have contributed to the decline of the Minoan civilization in Crete through tsunamis and ash falls. Some researchers even associate it with the myth of Atlantis.

Vesuvius, 79 AD

The eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD is one of the most famous in history, burying the Roman cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Stabiae under meters of ash and pumice. The testimony of Pliny the Younger allowed for precise documentation of this Plinian phenomenon. This disaster froze a moment of ancient Roman life in time, offering an exceptional archaeological record.

Laki, 1783-1784

Although isolated in Iceland, Laki had a devastating impact on all of Europe. A 27 km-long fissure emitted enormous quantities of lava and toxic gases (sulfur dioxide). The resulting "dry fog" darkened the European sky, causing a volcanic winter that led to famines, particularly in France, possibly contributing to pre-revolutionary tensions.

Dynamics and Danger of European Volcanoes

Volcanoes of the Aegean Arc and Mediterranean

The Aegean Arc and the Mediterranean are tectonic convergence zones where the African plate subducts beneath the Eurasian plate. This generates silica-rich magmatism, producing often explosive volcanoes. We mainly observe gray volcanoes like Vesuvius or Santorini, characterized by violent eruptions with ash plumes and pyroclastic flows. Their danger lies in their unpredictable nature and the high population density around them.

Volcanoes Related to Hotspots and Rifts

, located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, is the site of intense effusive volcanism. Volcanoes like Eyjafjallajökull or Fagradalsfjall produce frequent eruptions, often effusive, but can also lead to particularly dangerous subglacial explosive phases. Their activity shapes unique landscapes and attracts tourists, while posing a threat to international air traffic.

Volcanoes of the Canary Islands

Although geographically African, the Canary Islands are politically part of Spain. Teide, rising to 3,715 m, is a stratovolcano associated with a hotspot. This type of edifice is potentially explosive and can eject significant amounts of ash and scoria. Its proximity to tourist areas greatly increases the risk. The 2021 eruption of Cumbre Vieja reminded us of the importance of monitoring these volcanoes.

Gray Volcanoes and Explosive Risks

The gray volcanoes of the Mediterranean, rich in silica and dissolved gases, have viscous lava that traps volatiles. Pressure builds up in the magma chambers, leading to spectacular explosive eruptions, accompanied by ash plumes and pyroclastic flows. The volcanoes of the Phlegraean Fields, Vesuvius, or Santorini are iconic examples of this dynamic. These phenomena represent the most brutal volcanic threat to populations.

Secondary Risks and Human Impacts

In addition to flows and explosions, Europe has experienced major historical volcanic disasters. The most famous example is that of Pompeii (79 AD), where an eruption of Vesuvius buried several Roman cities. Ash falls also disrupt air traffic, as during the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, which paralyzed European air transport for several days. Modern infrastructures are particularly vulnerable to these phenomena.

A Balance Between Attractiveness and Threat

European volcanoes illustrate a dual nature: they shape spectacular landscapes, attract millions of tourists, and fertilize the soil, but they also pose a constant threat. Seismic monitoring, alert systems, and numerical modeling of volcanic plumes are now essential to protect the millions of people living near these geological giants.

Table of Main Volcanoes in Europe

Red and Gray Volcanoes: Two Eruptive Dynamics

Red volcanoes correspond to effusive volcanoes, characterized by fluid lava flows and relatively low gas content. Their magma is basaltic, with low viscosity, allowing gases to escape easily. The result is spectacular but generally low-explosive activity, as seen at Fagradalsfjall in Iceland or Stromboli in Italy. The landscape is dominated by vast lava fields and gentle-sloped cones.

In contrast, gray volcanoes correspond to explosive volcanoes, where lava is more viscous, rich in silica and dissolved gases. The buildup of pressure leads to violent eruptions, with ash plumes, pyroclastic flows, and glowing avalanches. Vesuvius, Santorini, and some Mediterranean stratovolcanoes are typical examples.