Geological and Geomorphological Hazard in Historical and Archaeological Sites of the Mediterranean Area: Knowledge, Forecasting and Mitigation

This study explains the results of a research programme concerning geological and geomor-phological hazards caused by earthquakes and landslides involving important archaeological and historical sites of the Mediterranean area. Several historical and monumental sites have been taken into account, such as Petra, Dougga, Delphi and some centres in Montenegro. Many researches have proved that a close relation exists between earthquakes and landslides locally caused by medium-high magnitude events. Actually, those events influenced the survival of entire communities and the preservation of their historical and monumental testimonies. Even anthropic intervention has sometimes contributed to the deterioration of monuments and to the disappearance of important historical testimonies. Each of these sites have been analysed according to their geomorphological features and to the dynamic response of the territory, pointing out prevention and static renewal measures useful to preserve the important heritage of the Mediterranean area, partially protected and included in the UNESCO's World Heritage.