On 23 February 1887, a violent earthquake destroyed many villages in western Liguria and damaged many others in the Cuneo area. In the immediate aftermath, the population became conscious of the earthquake’s true impact: not only did it leave tangible traces, but it also profoundly affected the perception of and attachment to the city. In order to rebuild the city, not only was an effective policy of intervention needed. It was also necessary for the citizens to be oriented and willing to organise the reconstruction of their urban space. This was not easy because the earthquake of 1887, having destroyed the cities, forced the communities to confront the deformed scenario, interpreting and giving meaning to the catastrophe through a laborious individual and collective elaboration. The study therefore proposes to examine the local context in which cultural resources formulate the capacity for response. The research highlights the interactions between the actors involved, who operate at different levels. At the State level, we find a young political structure with insufficient legislative experience in the field of disaster management, while at the local level, we observe citizens and administrations trying to adapt their actions to the legal provisions in accordance with their desires and aspirations. Finally, the contribution analyses the reconstruction of Diano Marina, a ‘testing ground’ in which these actors interact and produce a successful outcome in which regulations and social agency allow citizens to reoccupy the urban space.