Rome, February 17: Italy’s famous natural limestone formation known as the "Lovers' Arch" (Arco di Sant’Andrea) collapsed into the Adriatic Sea on Saturday, February 14, due to storms. The collapse occurred on the morning of Valentine’s Day, a date that added a layer of unintended irony given the landmark's romantic name and its status as a popular destination for couples. Local authorities in the Puglia region confirmed that while the loss of the arch is a significant blow to the area's tourism and natural heritage, no injuries were reported as the collapse occurred during a period of inclement weather when the cliffs were largely deserted.

The rock formation, located along the Salento coast in the province of Lecce, had long been one of the most photographed sites in southern Italy. Geologists believe that a combination of centuries of natural erosion and a recent bout of violent winter storms, characterized by high winds and heavy swells, weakened the limestone structure until it could no longer support its own weight. The mayor of Melendugno described the event as a "heartbreaking loss" for the local community, noting that the arch was a symbol of the region’s identity. Robbery Bid Caught on Camera in Italy: Armed Robbers Attack Cash-in-Transit Van With Explosives on Highway, Video Surfaces.

Italy’s ‘Lovers’ Arch’ Collapses

‘Lovers’ Arch’ Collapse: Erosion and Environmental Factors

The "Lovers' Arch" was a classic example of a marine arch, formed by the constant battering of waves against soft limestone. Over decades, experts had monitored the thinning of the upper span, noting that such structures are inherently temporary in geological time. The collapse highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Italy’s 7,500-kilometer coastline to rising sea levels and increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

Local environmentalists have noted that several other nearby stack formations and sea caves are also showing signs of structural fatigue. While the Puglia coastline remains a protected area of natural beauty, the collapse serves as a reminder of the fragility of coastal landmarks composed of sedimentary rock. Kidnapping Bid Caught on Camera in Italy: Man Arrested After Attempted Abduction of 1-Year-Old Girl at Bergamo Supermarket.

A Symbol for Tourism and Tradition

The arch earned its moniker due to the legend that couples who kissed beneath it would stay together forever. It served as a backdrop for countless weddings, proposals, and film productions over the years. The timing of its disappearance on February 14 quickly drew international attention on social media, with many locals expressing shock at the sudden loss of the "gateway to the sea."

Despite the collapse, the surrounding cliffs of Torre Sant’Andrea remain open to the public, though local police have cordoned off the immediate area where the arch once stood. This measure is intended to prevent tourists from approaching unstable cliff edges as the seabed settles around the newly fallen debris.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 17, 2026 11:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).