Prof. D'Amico explores the science behind the 1908 Messina Earthquake

Prof. Sebastiano D’Amico from the Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta participated in the international study days “L’arcivescovo Angelo Paino (1870–1967) e il suo tempo”, held at the University of Messina on 24, 25 and 29 September 2026.

The multidisciplinary event brought together scholars from several institutions to examine the historical, social, political and cultural context of Archbishop Angelo Paino and the transformation of Messina during the twentieth century. The initiative was jointly promoted by the Società Messinese di Storia Patria, the University of Messina and the University of Malta, with support from the Italian Ministry of Culture.

Prof. D’Amico delivered the invited presentation “Messina 1908, Perché la terra tremò: anatomia di un terremoto” (“Messina 1908: Why the Earth Shook – Anatomy of an Earthquake”).

His contribution focused on the scientific and seismological aspects of the catastrophic 28 December 1908 Messina earthquake, explaining the processes responsible for the earthquake and discussing its devastating consequences for Messina and the surrounding Strait area.

The presentation provided a scientific perspective within a broader programme examining how the disaster profoundly influenced the subsequent reconstruction and transformation of the city.

The event also highlighted the value of bringing together geoscience, history and cultural heritage to better understand major natural disasters not only as physical phenomena, but also through their long-term effects on communities, institutions and the built environment.

This interdisciplinary perspective was particularly relevant to the conference theme, which examined Archbishop Paino's important role in Messina's material and social reconstruction following the 1908 earthquake and subsequent wartime destruction.

Prof. D’Amico also served as a member of the Scientific Committee of the study days, further strengthening academic collaboration between the University of Malta and the University of Messina.