Stromboli

Stromboli is a volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, part of the Aeolian Islands archipelago off the north coast of Sicily, Italy. The island is dominated by the active stratovolcano Stromboli, which has produced continuous explosive activity for millennia and has given its name to the eruptive style known as Strombolian.

The volcano rises about 900 to 926 meters above sea level, with its upper cone overlooking the Sciara del Fuoco, a sweeping horseshoe-shaped depression that channels lava and tephra toward the sea. Eruptions are characterized by regular, moderate explosions that eject incandescent bombs and ash plumes, often at intervals of minutes to hours. These persistent vents have been observed since ancient times and attract researchers and tourists; the activity is monitored by Italian and international agencies.

The island and its volcano are part of the Aeolian Islands, which were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 for their volcanic landscapes and biodiversity. The island has a small permanent population and is accessible by ferry; visitors commonly view eruptions from designated viewpoints or by guided tours, though access to the crater summit is restricted for safety reasons. Offshore and island communities practice seismic and volcanic risk mitigation.

Stromboli also refers to a type of Italian-American sandwich named after the island; it typically consists of a rolled dough filled with cheese and meats, and is distinct from the Italian "stromboli" dish. The dish’s name likely derives from the volcanic island, reflecting Italian-American culinary influences.