Description
This talk merges the geology and history of the Mediterranean city of Siracusa (namesake for New York’s Syracuse), located on the southeast coast of Sicily. Siracusa was founded in 734 BC by Greek colonists and was an immensely powerful city until conquered by Rome in 212 BC. The modern Italian city is built atop the ruins of the previous “occupiers,” hence the adage, “If you want to experience ancient Greece, go to Sicily!”
Dirk Van Hart has an MS in geology. He worked as a petroleum geologist for 25 years, followed by 25 years of consulting work and contract geology for Sandia National Laboratories. He has published a book about northwestern New Mexico and has given talks about the state’s geology. He is semi-retired and loves sharing his knowledge.