VALLETTA, Malta — The Azure Window, a natural rock arch that jutted over the sea off Malta and was a backdrop for the “Game of Thrones” TV series, has collapsed.
Malta Prime Minister Joseph Muscat tweeted his “heartbreaking” sadness at the loss Wednesday of one of the main tourist attractions on the island of Gozo.
No one was injured.
Geologist Peter Gatt said the blue clay limestone pillar supporting the arch gave way. He attributed the collapse to years of erosion by sea swells.
The window also served as a backdrop in the 1981 movie “Clash of the Titans.”
With parts of the rock formation crumbling over the years, the government had only last month enacted a $2,300 fine for anyone caught walking across the arch.
The Azure Window in April 2014. Photo by Caroline Hodgson via AP
Where the Azure Window once stood. Photo taken Wednesday. Associated Press/Christian Mangion
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