IIn collaboration with INGV – Catania Etneo Observatory, Stonex was able to collect 3D data of a lava tunnel located on the north side of the Etna volcano. We used our SLAM Laser Scanner and the results can be seen in the video above.
The Grotta dei Ladroni, or Grotta della Neve is located on the north-east side of Etna and can be reached from the Mareneve road, near the Citelli Refuge, in Piano delle Donne, at an altitude of about 1600 a.s.l.. This small lava flow cave, was formed during the flow of Ripa Saldara, (New Geological Map of Mt Etna, Branca et Alii 2011) which lies on a paleoil dated, with the 14C method, 5240 ± 50 a (Lanzafame et alii, 1997). It is formed by a conduit with a slight slope, which descends into the subsoil to a depth of about 10 meters and has two entrances with steps at the ends and two intermediate wells made with extreme care by man. The name, according to local legends, derives from the fact that it was used as a refuge and “deposit” by a band of four thieves (Ladroni) in the 18th century; the two opposite entrances are said to be functional to a possible escape.
The same is also called the “Grotta della Neve” (Snow Cave) because, centuries ago, when there were no refrigerators, some caves, called “Neviere”, were used for the conservation of snow. The snow was collected, pressed and covered with a thick layer of volcanic ash that maintained its low temperature and allowed it to be stored for the whole year, waiting for the new winter season. The ice obtained was then cut into blocks, wrapped in fern leaves and straw and closed in resistant jute sacks; transported to cities and ports by mule, it was sold throughout Sicily and also exported to Malta.
