Europe's largest volcano erupted violently

The most intense eruption in many months of the volcano Etna, Europe's largest and most active volcano, has delayed many flights.

>>>Video: Europe's largest volcano erupts violently

The loud bangs from the crater signaled an intense eruption recorded on December 15, before lava flows erupted from a height of 3,000m.Etna volcano is located on the island of Sicily, Italy.(Photo: EPA)

The volcanic eruption created large swarms of dust, affecting visibility and causing the airport in Catania to east of Sicily to cease to function.A smaller airport in Comiso, southeastern island must also be closed.Of which 21 flights from Catania have to cancel their schedules and 26 other flights have to fly to alternative locations.In the picture is the map of Sicily Island, southern Italy.(Photo: Wikicommons)

The eruption of volcanoes followed the explosions of the sky and lava flows shot up like a big fountain.(Photo: Corbis)

While volcanic eruptions, some small earthquakes were also recorded in this area.(Photo: EPA)

Lava eruptions of this volcano have lasted for months.(Photo: Corbis)

However, this is considered the biggest and most intense volcanic eruption.(Photo: AP)

Red hot lava flows shot up from the crater to light up a sky.(Photo: Corbis)

Local officials said that although the volcano erupted violently but did not endanger the people in the surrounding area and they were not evacuated.(Photo: Corbis)

It is the largest active volcano in Europe, and is one of the most active and beautiful volcanoes in the world.(Photo: Corbis)

This is a volcanic, conical volcano, consisting of many layers of lava, volcanic ash and volcanic dust.This type of volcano is characterized by a steep, explosive eruption.(Photo: Corbis)