On July 21, 365, a powerful earthquake shook the island of Crete, a key region in the eastern Mediterranean. This seismic event reached a maximum Mercalli intensity of XI, classified as "Extreme," indicating not just widespread destruction but also considerable loss of life. Following the quake, a destructive tsunami emerged, traveling across the Mediterranean Sea and impacting major coastal areas in North Africa, particularly in Libya and Egypt, with Alexandria being one of the hardest hit cities. The tsunami's destructive force compounded the devastation already wrought by the initial earthquake, resulting in a catastrophic situation for the local populations.

Communities along the coast faced unprecedented challenges as the natural phenomenon swept through their lands with little warning, leading to loss of homes, infrastructures, and, tragically, countless human lives. Eyewitness accounts and recorded testimonies describe scenes of chaos and fear as survivors struggled to manage the aftermath of both the quake and the tsunami. In Alexandria, temples and public buildings were severely damaged, symbolizing the cultural and civic loss incurred due to these natural calamities. This disaster not only altered the physical landscape but also created a lasting societal impact.

In the years following this event, cities and regions affected by the earthquake and tsunami were characterized by their resilience and struggle to recover. Despite the massive destruction, local communities began to rebuild, often with a renewed focus on understanding seismic activity and creating effective responses to such disasters in the future. The event prompted discussions about urban planning and disaster management, highlighting the importance of preparedness in regions vulnerable to natural occurrences.