Amatrice Marks 10 Years Since Devastating Earthquake

As Amatrice commemorates a decade since the earthquake, many residents remain in temporary housing amid slow reconstruction efforts.

On the 10th anniversary of the devastating earthquake that impacted Amatrice, residents gathered to reflect on the tragedy that struck in the early hours of August 24, 2016. The 6.0 magnitude quake claimed 303 lives and left many homeless, with over half of the town’s approximately 2,100 residents still living in temporary housing.

The commemoration on Monday was marked by speeches from politicians, but for many locals, these words provided little comfort. Sonia Santarelli, president of the grassroots initiative Comitato Civico 3e36, criticized the government’s ineffective reconstruction efforts, stating, “They will say the reconstruction is going well … but how can that be when so many are in homes that are uninhabitable?”

According to a recent report by ActionAid Italy, two-thirds of the planned public projects in Amatrice had yet to commence as of April 2026, with this figure climbing to 70% in the hardest-hit areas. A total of €4.85 billion has been allocated for reconstruction, but progress remains painfully slow.

Further detailing the ongoing challenges, Santarelli recalled waking to the sounds of destruction a decade ago. The town’s historic center was nearly eradicated, leaving devastation in its wake. Despite being spared from homelessness, many displaced residents are still facing mounting frustrations.

Comitato Civico 3e36 has been instrumental in advocating for those affected, ensuring their voices are heard amid bureaucratic delays. Residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the inadequacy of the prefabricated housing provided at various sites, citing cramped and uncomfortable living conditions. “The heat and humidity squelch you,” Santarelli lamented.

In contrast, the mayor of Amatrice, Giorgio Cortellesi, appointed in 2021, noted that while reconstruction has gained momentum over recent years, there remains a critical housing crisis exacerbated by rising rents. “We are working to reclaim some of those properties,” he stated, acknowledging the difficulties caused by the pandemic and changes in the government’s renovation schemes.

The delay in reconstructing homes and buildings in Amatrice can be traced back to the tumultuous political landscape. After the earthquake, former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi promised a swift rebuilding process but resigned later in 2016, leading to five different governments overseeing the recovery efforts. Cortellesi emphasized that the prefabricated villages are nearing the end of their warranty period and will soon require dismantling, pushing the urgency of finding durable housing solutions for displaced residents.

The aftermath of the earthquake also saw a decline in Amatrice’s population. Many left in search of better opportunities. Yet there remains a resilient spirit among those who choose to stay. Sergio Pirozzi, the former mayor during the earthquake, reflected on the loss and trauma, declaring, “For me, even today, this is the most beautiful place in the world.” This unwavering attachment to Amatrice is mirrored in the determination of its residents to see their community rebuilt.