A sequence of strong earthquakes began in the Calabria region in early February 1783, with severe tremors reported starting on the 5th. The earthquakes were part of a larger seismic episode that lasted for several months, marking one of the most significant seismic events in southern Italy’s history. The initial earthquake was felt strongly in towns near the epicenter, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, with reports of ground shaking and considerable structural damage. As aftershocks continued, many residents fled their homes in fear, leading to a humanitarian crisis in the region as resources became scarce.

The quakes varied in intensity, with many residents describing their experiences of hearing loud rumbling sounds accompanied by violent shaking. Following the initial tremors, subsequent quakes led to additional fatalities and injuries as buildings collapsed and landslides occurred in the steep terrain. The earthquakes also altered the local landscape, creating fissures and shifting the soil, which posed further challenges for recovery. The disturbances resulted in long-term displacement for many families, leaving communities fractured and traumatized by the experience.

Geological studies in the following years indicated that this seismic activity was caused by the complex interactions of tectonic plates in the region, a feature of the Mediterranean’s geological setting. Historically, this episode heightened awareness of Italy's susceptibility to seismic hazards and emphasized the need for improved building practices and disaster preparedness in the region, which were unfortunately inadequate at the time. The cultural memory of the Calabrian earthquakes influenced local folklore, art, and literature, serving as a lasting reminder of nature’s power.