Untold Italy · Friday, September 4, 2026
Volcanoes have played a crucial role in shaping Italy's landscape and supporting its civilization, according to Ed Cutler. Volcanic activity provided building materials, water sources, hot springs, and fertile land that benefited the Romans and continues to influence the country.
“They have created so much of the landscape. And I would argue they gave the Romans, for example, everything they needed to build their civilization, the building materials, literally the stones.”
“So this chain of volcanoes starting from where I am, going all the way down to Rome, down to Naples, and continuing all the way along.”
“Without them, we wouldn't have. All of these incredible benefits that we still get today, the water, the fertility, the energy.”