This study assesses air quality in L’Aquila ten years after the 2009 earthquake using epiphytic lichens for biomonitoring. Nine urban and peri-urban sites were surveyed using the Lichen Biodiversity Index (IBL) and SEM-EDS analysis on Xanthoria parietina. Areas with ongoing reconstruction showed low lichen diversity and chemical elements linked to building materials. Only peripheral areas distant from construction sites showed good air quality. Results highlight the environmental impact of post-earthquake reconstruction