The Azure Window and the impact of natural hazards on natural heritage in Gozo, Malta
By Leonard Gournay What is this story about? The Azure Window, known among specialists for its scientific relevance, and famous worldwide, notably for having been a background landscape in which several movie productions were shot, was the most monumental limestone arch over the Maltese archipelago, and a national landmark cherished by the population. As natural heritage, it had been subject to weather conditions and natural erosion since its appearance around the 19th century. Environmental process, enhanced by the lack of preservation policies from local powers, led to its collapse in March 2017. Its sudden disappearance triggered diverse reactions and responses from every stakeholder involved in this heritage in a direct or indirect manner. Biography of the Azure window The 35m high limestone arch was located on the north-west coast of the island of Gozo (Malta), in the zone of the Dwejra depression. This geographical area received numerous heritage nominations because o...
