The Importance of Seismic Legislation and Reinforced Concrete in the Reconstruction of the Cities of the Strait of Messina

Abstract

Through the example of the cities of Reggio Calabria and Messina, which were completely destroyed by the earthquake of 28th December 1908, this paper examines the importance of anti-seismic regulations in the redefinition of the urban planning of these two cities, as well as the national situation during the early part of the century. It also looks at the question of how to limit the effects of earthquakes through the use of absolutely innovative materials for the time, such as reinforced concrete. Rightly considered the first examples of earthquake-resistant cities in Italy, Reggio Calabria and Messina became a testing ground not only for a new construction technique but also for a new idea of city. In rebuilding ex novo what had been destroyed by the earthquake, the intent was to readapt the urban theories of the late nineteenth century to the architectural and urban needs deriving from the seismic legislation emanated in the aftermath of the terrible event.