The Past
The Azure Window, a stunning limestone arch on the island of Gozo, Malta, was one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic landmarks. Standing at 50 meters high in Dwejra Bay, it was formed millions of years ago when two limestone sea caves collapsed, creating the majestic arch that became a magnet for tourists and photographers worldwide. This natural wonder also graced the silver screen, appearing in films such as “Clash of the Titans” (1981), “The Count of Monte Cristo” (2002), and the first season of “Game of Thrones.”
Despite its allure, the Azure Window faced inevitable natural erosion. A geological study in 2013 indicated that while the formation was gradually eroding, it was not in imminent danger of collapsing. This prediction, however, proved overly optimistic.
The Collapse
In March 2017, heavy storms ravaged the island, causing the Azure Window to collapse dramatically into the sea. The event, witnessed by few, resulted in a “loud whoomph” and a massive spray as the arch succumbed to natural forces. Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat expressed the nation’s sorrow, noting that previous reports had predicted such an outcome due to unavoidable natural corrosion.
The collapse left no visible rock above sea level, transforming the once majestic arch into a memory. The site where the Azure Window stood, known locally as Tieqa tad-Dwejra, now offers a new, albeit somber, view.
The Attraction
Before its collapse, the Azure Window attracted thousands of tourists annually. Its breathtaking structure provided a backdrop for numerous photographs and a thrilling spot for cliff divers. However, human activity hastened its demise, prompting authorities to ban walking over the bridge in its final years, with hefty fines for violators.
In the wake of the Azure Window’s disappearance, another, less famous arch at Wied il-Mielah continues to draw visitors, offering a semblance of the lost landmark’s grandeur.
The New Resting Place
While the Azure Window no longer graces the skyline, it has found a new life underwater. The remnants of the arch now lie beneath the surface, creating a unique dive site. Divers exploring the area can see the collapsed sections, including parts of the pillar and the ceiling, now resting between 5 to 8 meters deep.
The collapse has transformed the site into an ideal location for both beginner and experienced divers. The underwater landscape features distinct rock types—yellow limestone from the arch’s ceiling and white stone from the pillar—providing a fascinating geological study. A newly formed passageway at the base where the pillar once stood invites divers to navigate through the submerged history of the Azure Window.
The Legacy
The Azure Window’s legacy endures, not only in memories and photographs but also in its new underwater home. Local researchers have meticulously reconstructed the arch’s collapse, allowing us to understand the natural forces that reshaped this landmark. The site remains a poignant reminder of nature’s power and the transient beauty of our natural world.
For those wishing to experience the Azure Window today, scuba diving in gozo offers a unique opportunity to connect with its history. As divers explore the submerged remains, they become part of the continuing story of this beloved landmark, now an underwater marvel in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea.
