Explore the seismic events that shook L'Aquila, Italy in April 2009 through this comprehensive conference talk from the AGU Fall Meeting 2009. Delve into the geological and seismological aspects of the earthquake sequence that struck this historic central Italian city, examining its impact on both the ancient urban landscape and modern infrastructure. Gain insights into the scientific analysis of the event, including aftershock patterns, ground motion characteristics, and the broader tectonic context of the region. Learn about the challenges of earthquake preparedness and response in areas with rich cultural heritage, and discuss the lessons learned for future seismic risk assessment and mitigation strategies in similar urban environments.