ITALY (Sicily) has been rocked by a strong earthquake (4.8 magnitude) that injured dozens of people and wrecked buildings close to an active Volcano.The 4.8 magnitude quake ripped through the Catania region of Sicily, causing old rural houses to collapse and wrecking historic churches.
Several dozen people were rushed to hospital with bruising following the quake near Etna volcano at around 2.34am local time (1.34am BST) on Saturday.Terrified residents also received treatment for panic attacks and shock.
The epicentre was at the town of Santa Maria De Licodia, 26km from the ancient port city of Catania, which is home to 315,000 people.Sleeping residents who were violently awoken by the quake spoke of their fear.

According to initial findings from firefighters, no significant structural damage has been sustained.Β In Biancavilla, Santa Maria di Licodia and Adrano there were reports of collapsed old rural houses and stone walls.

Authorities received 50 requests for help after partial collapses, detachment of plasters and cornices and stability checks.Β Several smaller tremors were felt after Saturday’s quake, which took place in an areaΒ with high seismic activity.