In Greek mythology the island was placed the forge of Hephaestus, god of fire and blacksmith. But it is the name of the Roman god Vulcan, which was given to the island. The island owes its existence to the fusion of four volcanoes, the largest and most active is the Vulcano della Fossa, it dominates from its height of 391 m. of reddish stone.

Between the two ports, the port of Levante and the port of Ponente, lies the island's main town. It's a rich village of shops and characterized by contemporary sculptures in lava stone.