In 1303, a massive earthquake struck Crete and the Aegean region, triggering a tsunami that caused extensive damage to coastal fortifications, including the Lighthouse of Alexandria. This seismic event highlighted the geological instability of the region and its vulnerability to natural disasters. The aftermath of the earthquake prompted discussions on urban resilience and disaster response in the affected areas.

The Great Earthquake of Crete prompted laments across Mediterranean literary circles, emphasizing the theme of time's destructive power on human achievements. Poets expressed a deep sense of loss for the iconic structures that once defined their cultural landscape.