On November 23, 1980 CE, a devastating earthquake, estimated at magnitude 6.9, struck the Irpinia region of southern Italy, killing almost 4,700 people and leaving 250,000 homeless. This was one of the most destructive earthquakes in Italian history and had a profound impact on the country. The disaster led to significant improvements in Italy's disaster response and building codes.

The 1980 Irpinia earthquake inspired a significant body of Italian literature, including poems and novels that explored the trauma and resilience of the survivors. The event is a key theme in contemporary Italian literature, where it is used to examine issues of social inequality, government failure, and the strength of community. The earthquake is a notable example in the history of Italian literature, often used as a metaphor for political and social upheaval.