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Sicily earthquake of 1693

Synopsis

Depiction of the earthquake in an engraving from 1696, possibly showing catania. etna was erupting in 1693 the sicily earthquake of 1693 was the most powerful in recorded italian history, and was so devastating that it changed the nature of architecture throughout the region. the earthquakes destroyed more than 70 towns and cities, particularly in the eastern part of the island, and killed about 54,000 people. this remains the most powerful (though not the most deadly) earthquake in the history of italy, estimated at 7.4 on the moment magnitude scale, with its epicenter on the southeastern coast of the island near syracuse. in addition to a volcanic eruption, collapsed buildings, and people fleeing, zahn depicts a long row of buildings that have sunk halfway into a large chasm, from which smoke rises in several spots

Item Description

This engraving was published in Johann Zahn, Specula physico-mathematico-historica notabilium ac mirabilium sciendorum. Inscribed in top right: 'Quae fors est miseris lapsu cum terra laborat et subito casu quae valuere ruunt' 'This is the chance of a miserable fall when the earth is suffering and suddenly things rush to value'. 44 x 38 cm.