Crete Earthquake and Tsunami of 365: What Happened
On 21 July 365 AD, a powerful earthquake struck near the island of Crete, followed by a devastating tsunami that swept across the eastern Mediterranean. Modern geologists estimate its magnitude at around 8 or higher, making it one of the largest known earthquakes in the region's history. Studies of ancient shorelines show that parts of western Crete were lifted up to around nine meters out of the sea. Nearly all the towns of Crete are thought to have been badly damaged. The Roman historian Ammianus Marcellinus described how the sea drew back, leaving ships stranded on the seabed, before a huge wave rushed in and flooded the coasts. In Alexandria, ships were reportedly carried onto rooftops, and thousands of people drowned. For many years afterward, the city marked the anniversary as a day of horror. The disaster also affected Greece, Libya, Cyprus and Sicily. Some historians believe the destruction contributed to the decline of many coastal cities in the late Roman world. Researchers today study the event to understand future tsunami risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Crete earthquake of 365?
On 21 July 365 AD, a powerful earthquake struck near Crete, followed by a devastating tsunami that swept across the eastern Mediterranean, destroying towns and killing thousands.
How strong was the 365 Crete earthquake?
Modern geologists estimate its magnitude at around 8 or higher. Parts of western Crete were lifted up to about nine meters out of the sea.
Did the tsunami hit Alexandria?
Yes. The Roman historian Ammianus Marcellinus described ships being carried onto rooftops in Alexandria, and thousands drowned. The city marked the anniversary for many years.
Which areas were affected by the 365 tsunami?
The disaster affected Crete, Greece, Libya, Egypt, Cyprus and Sicily. Nearly all the towns of Crete are thought to have been badly damaged.
Why do scientists study the 365 earthquake?
Researchers study the event to understand the risk of future large earthquakes and tsunamis in the eastern Mediterranean, one of the region's most active seismic zones.
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