MOUNT ETNA, Italy: Guides in Sicily's Mount Etna are upset with the local authorities over tougher restrictions imposed by them after the giant volcano erupted a number of times in recent weeks.

Catania city authorities have suspended or restricted excursions to see the volcano's lava flows. This has prompted guides to go on strike for the first time in decades and has left disgruntled tourists with fewer options to see the spectacle up close.

This week, dozens of guides demonstrated in front of the lava flow gate at Mount Etna, calling the new restrictions excessive. They said the lava flows were slow-moving enough to be viewed safely, as has been done in the past.

"These measures effectively nullify the role of guides, stripping them of their skills, function, and professional responsibility," a statement by the guides' regional board said.

The lava flows are spectacular after sunset, but under the new rules, excursions are allowed only until dusk, and tourists must maintain a distance of 660 feet from the lava flow. Also, a limit of 10 people per group is being enforced, including with drones.

Mount Etna is the largest and most active volcano in Europe. It attracts hikers and backpackers, while other tourists enjoy views from a distance, especially from the Ionian Sea.

The volcano is nearly 11,000 feet high and about 22 miles wide. It often shows powerful natural activity. Last June, a major eruption forced tourists to run for safety after hot gas, ash, and rocks shot several miles into the air.

The latest restrictions were imposed after new eruptions began on Christmas Eve.

Local officials said the most advanced lava flow reached about 1,360 meters (4,460 feet) above sea level, then stopped and began to cool after traveling about two miles. Scientists say the lava does not threaten nearby towns.

Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology said this week that the eruption is still ongoing, but the lava is cooling and no longer advancing.

"This lava is moving very slowly across an area that is mostly flat," said Dario Teri, a guide at the protest.

The guides plan to continue their strike and hope to reach an agreement with authorities that protects their jobs while keeping visitors safe.

Claudia Mancini, a tourist from Palermo, said she came to Mount Etna for a guided trip.

"Unfortunately, we were told that all activities were canceled," she said, adding that she feels sorry for the guides because the situation "isn't making anyone happy."