On a fateful day in June during the summer of 1170, a powerful earthquake struck northern Syria, delivering a devastating blow to several towns and significant historical structures. Hama and Shaizar were among the most severely affected locations, with entire blocks of buildings reduced to rubble. The historical castle of Krak des Chevaliers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its medieval architecture, suffered extensive damage, as did the cathedral of St. Peter in Antioch, one of the oldest worship sites in the Christian world. Reports from the period suggest that the tremors were felt as far away as the Mediterranean coast, indicating the quake's far-reaching impact.

The immediate aftermath saw a desperate response from local communities as survivors faced enormous challenges in the wake of the disaster. Rescue and recovery efforts mobilized both local populations and neighboring regions to assist in the aftermath of the quake. The significant damage to infrastructures also meant that trade routes were disrupted, which would have long-term economic implications for the region. The destruction of key religious sites also raised concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage and affected the local Christian population, who relied on these sites for both spiritual and community gatherings.

Moreover, the earthquake highlighted the seismic risks of the region, prompting future architectural considerations in terms of building practices and disaster preparedness. Scholars and architects began to study the implications of such geological events, aiming to identify potential preparedness measures for future occurrences. This event marked a defining moment for urban planning and architecture in medieval Syria, as communities grappled with the necessity of rebuilding while accounting for natural threats in their assessments of risk. Over time, the devastation led to a reconsideration of the urban layout and structural resilience in subsequent building projects.