ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the geomorphic characteristics of 146 old, large earthquake-induced landslides identified in southeastern Sicily. Southeastern Sicily consists of about 4400 km2. It presents a central plateau, the Hyblaean Mountains horst, surrounded by lower lands, hilly to flat. In lithological terms, most of Hyblaean Mts is underlain by moderately-to well-lithified clastic carbonate rocks and marlstones; thin claystone layers are locally present. The peculiar geomorphology of S. E. Sicily and, to an extent to be determined, the characteristics of the triggering earthquakes, cause some attributes of the landslides to deviate significantly from what is usually observed elsewhere in the world. Style and state of activity, and geometry of slip surfaces indicate that most landslides may experience repeated reactivations. Style of activity-Landslides are multiple in most cases, complex or composite very rarely. The possible reactivation of the landslides represents a serious hazard for people and property.
