The iconic natural rock arch at Sant’Andrea di Melendugno in Apulia, known as the ‘arch of lovers’, collapsed yesterday after rough seas and heavy rains hit southern Italy.
The rock formation, one of the most recognizable natural landmarks of the Adriatic coast, had acquired its nickname because it was – until recently – a popular backdrop for marriage proposals. At the same time, it was one of the most characteristic symbols of Salento, one of the most visited tourist areas.
“This is a devastating blow,” said Melendugno’s mayor, Maurizio Citernino. “One of the most famous tourist spots of our coastline and of the whole of Italy has disappeared.”
According to local authorities, strong winds, rough seas and heavy rains in recent days gradually weakened the rock structure, leading to the collapse on Valentine’s Day.
“What existed 30 years ago no longer exists. We need to find the resources for a comprehensive intervention,” added the mayor.
“It’s like a funeral,” commented Melendugno’s deputy mayor in charge of tourism, Francesco Stella.
According to the Guardian, the Mediterranean cyclones, known as “medicanes”, including Hurricane Harry that hit the region in January, have caused extensive damage to ports, homes and road networks, changing the morphology of the coasts.
“With the Mediterranean experiencing one of the warmest years on record in 2025, warmer seas are overheating the atmosphere and fueling extreme events,” said Christian Mulder, professor of ecology and climate emergency at the University of Catania in Sicily.
On January 25, following the torrential rains brought by Cyclone Harry, a devastating landslide tore through the entire hillside in the Sicilian town of Niscemi, creating a 4km gap.
Roads collapsed, cars were submerged, and entire sections of the urban fabric sank into the valley below.
With information from Forbes and The Guardian.
