1114 Maraş Earthquake

Maraş is located near the Eastern Mediterranean and lies in a transitional zone between the Mediterranean and continental climates. This geographical feature contributes to the agricultural economy with its fertile lands. The surrounding Ahırdağı and Amanos Mountains, with their steep slopes and high gradients, have historically provided natural resilience against disasters for settlements in the region. Maraş has been influenced by significant civilizations such as the Late Hittites and the Roman Empire. Additionally, the city's name is derived from the Arabic verb "re'aşe," symbolizing its susceptibility to natural disasters like earthquakes.

The 1114 Maraş Earthquake: A Historical Catastrophe

The Maraş Earthquake of November 29, 1114, is recorded as one of the most devastating disasters of the Middle Ages. The earthquake's epicenter was in Maraş, causing significant destruction and a large loss of life. Urfalı Mateos documented that the earthquake struck with immense force, centering on Maraş. Eyewitnesses described the ground trembling with loud roaring, rocks splitting, and hills cracking. Following the quake, Maraş and its surroundings were reduced to ruins, with reports stating that 40,000 people lost their lives and that all homes in the city were destroyed. Other settlements, such as Samsat, Hısnımansur, Keysun, Raban, and Maraş, also suffered substantial losses.

The earthquake’s impact was not confined to Maraş alone; neighboring provinces such as Adana, Antep, Osmaniye, and Urfa also experienced extensive destruction and loss. In Syria, cities like Aleppo, Azaz, and Balis were similarly affected.

Urfalı Mateos claimed that the destruction and loss of life occurred only in Christian-populated areas, while Muslim-populated regions remained unharmed. He attributed this to the "great sins" committed by Christians, attempting to draw attention to this perspective. However, given the scale of the disaster, it is implausible that only Christians were affected. Nonetheless, it is true that the earthquake was more intensely felt in areas predominantly inhabited by the Christian community.