A 2013 geological study found that the underwater section of the pillar holding up the Azure Window was “dissected by fissures” to the same extent as the rock above sea level.
The study by geologist Rodney Xerri was commissioned by the Gozo Ministry and analysed both the pillar and the arch in an attempt to understand their condition. The iconic Azure Window collapsed last week, shocking people from every corner of the world. The fragility of the window had in recent months made headlines, as efforts were stepped up to discourage visitors from walking across it.
Underwater footage emerged on Sunday showing huge chunks of rock as all that remain of what was once one of the most popular sites in Gozo.
According to the 2013 report, a diver survey was commissioned to examine the pillars of the arch below sea level, at depths ranging from 15 to 35 metres.
Scuba divers studied the pillar between August 29 and September 3, 2012, with video and photographic data collected using a digital underwater camera.
According to the conclusions in the report, to stabilise the arch, the supporting pillar could have been helped by “bolting the jointed supporting pillars”.
The study also concluded that the major instability of the arch was due to open fissures parallel to the axis of the arch, while those perpendicular to the axis were causing the gradual shrinking of the arch as minor wedges failed, resulting in rock falls.
To rectify this, the geologist suggested the arch’s open fissures could be sealed with a cement-bentonite mix to “prevent further washing by rainwater”.
Following the window’s collapse last week, geologists are convinced that it was the pillar that had given way and not the arch – contrary to expectations. As a result, the whole rock formation disappeared into the sea.
The Azure Window was created after two limestone sea caves collapsed. It was one of the Maltese islands’ most distinctive sites, attracting thousands of tourists and locals every year.
In the wake of the overwhelming reactions from both locals and foreigners, the government announced it was launching an “international initiative” for anyone with ideas for commemorating the landmark.
The temporary conservation order banning people from crossing the arch has been shifted underwater and forbids anyone from accessing the area.