The earthquake struck at 3.19am local time (2.19am GMT), prompting frightened residents to flee their homes and sleep in their cars.

It damaged some rural homes, including structures that had been abandoned years ago, and toppled a statue in a church in the town of Santa Venerina. It also opened up cracks on a road, which was closed for inspection.

The Italian news agency ANSA said an 80-year-old man was pulled from the rubble of a house.

Around 30 people suffered injuries, mostly from falling masonry as they fled from their homes, officials said.

A woman told state radio that a heavy wardrobe in her home had toppled over, trapping her sister, who was then pulled out to safety by her father. In another house, a ceiling collapsed.

Vito Crimi, government undersecretary, said: “Etna remains a dangerous volcano, and this country of ours is unfortunately fragile.”