Development of seismology in Spain in the context of the three large earthquakes of 1755, 1884 and 1954
The occurrence of large earthquakes is in many cases a catalyst for the advancement of seismology. This article examines the influence of the three large earthquakes of 1755, 1884 and 1954, felt in the Iberian peninsula, in the development of seismology in Spain. The 1755 earthquake was the occasion for the establishment of the study of earthquakes as natural phenomena outside of religious considerations and the introduction of modern ideas about the origin of earthquakes. The 1884 earthquake was the first earthquake in Spain subject to a serious and detailed scientific study by three commissions from Spain, France and Italy. This led to the introduction in Spain of modern ideas about the study of earthquakes and their tectonic origin. It showed also the need for installing seismographic stations. The 1954 deep earthquake was the occasion for a renewed interest in Spain for seismology, improvements in the seismographic stations and the beginning of international cooperation.