Ferdinandea: The island that came and went – and almost triggered a war

A dramatic episode in the summer of 1831 shows how natural events can spark political passions. From June to August 1831, a natural spectacle took place off the south-western coast of Sicily, which not only attracted scientists, but also almost led to a diplomatic conflict between several European powers. Starting point was a strong earthquake about 50 kilometers from the Sicilian coast – between the island of Pantelleria and the port city of Sc…