Un terremoto cretese dell'età dell'imperatore Eraclio

Based on the comparison of various urban contexts (Knossos, Chersonisos, Gortyn), the article seeks to specify the chronology of a Cretan earthquake that occurred in the first quarter of the seventh century, proposing the most likely date as 617, in substantial agreement with what Antonino Di Vita had already suggested (namely, 618). The reconstruction of Gortyn, after this destructive event, varied in duration depending on the city’s districts. In the Praetorium area, it likely concluded before 620-621 ; in other parts of the city, it must have extended at least until 628. This latter assertion is suggested by the total absence of bronze coins in the archaeological record of the Praetorium, Mitropolis, and the Agora between 617 and 628, which seems not to be coincidental. The refurbishment and consolidation of ecclesiastical buildings were notably carried out by Archbishop Betranios, whose episcopate should be dated to a period beginning before 617 and ending in 621/622 when the prelate passed away.