Laboratorio Didattico sul Terremoto

Gemona's Earthquake Educational Workshop, part of the Ecomuseo delle Acque, explains seismic activity through scientific interpretation of the 1976 disaster and the region's geology.

Why it matters

Gemona was devastated by the earthquake of 6 May 1976 and later became a symbol of the Modello Friuli reconstruction. The workshop, developed by the municipality and the Ecomuseo with scientific support from Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, uses the local experience to explain earthquakes and seismic risk.

What to notice

Interpretive material covers Earth's structure, plate tectonics, how earthquakes originate, their measurement and prevention, and the geology of Italy, Friuli and the Gemonese district. Illustrated panels and hands-on models demonstrate seismic processes. The reconstructed historic centre also preserves visible evidence of the 1976 damage and subsequent rebuilding.

Context and history

The workshop forms part of the Ecomuseo delle Acque, which works across Gemona and neighbouring communities to preserve the identity and landscape of the Gemonese area. It was established to foster understanding of seismic phenomena in a region exposed to earthquake risk. Public and regional support and scientific collaboration helped develop its educational approach. The workshop complements other local institutions that document the 1976 disaster and reconstruction.