Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755

Major Earthquake Strikes Lisbon in 1755

On November 1, 1755, at 9:40 am, a powerful earthquake struck Lisbon, Portugal, known as the Great Lisbon Earthquake. The quake devastated the city, causing widespread damage and loss of life.

Tsunami and Fires Add to Devastation

The earthquake triggered a tsunami that struck the city shortly after, causing further damage and destruction. Several fires broke out in the aftermath, further exacerbating the devastation.

One of Europe's Deadliest Earthquakes

The Great Lisbon Earthquake is considered one of the most powerful earthquakes to ever hit Europe. Estimates suggest that it killed between 10,000 and 100,000 people, making it one of the deadliest earthquakes in history.

Impact on European Society

The earthquake had a profound impact on European society. It led to the development of new earthquake-resistant building codes and prompted philosophical debates about the nature of natural disasters and the role of divine intervention.

Legacy of the Great Lisbon Earthquake

The Great Lisbon Earthquake remains a significant event in Portuguese history. It reshaped the city's architecture and infrastructure and continues to influence the country's seismic preparedness and disaster response efforts.