The Azure Window, Gozo's iconic rock arch, collapsed on 8 March 2017 after a storm. It previously served as the filming location for Daenerys's wedding in Game of Thrones.
The Azure Window (Tieqa tad-Dwejra) was a natural limestone arch on Gozo's western coast in the Dwejra area. The formation stood approximately 28 metres tall with a span of 25 metres. For decades it was Malta's most iconic landmark, featured on postcards, stamps, and tourism campaigns.
In 2010, the Azure Window gained global fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones. In the first episode of Season 1, "Winter Is Coming", the Dothraki wedding scene between Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo on the coast of Pentos was shot here. Earlier, in 1981, the location appeared in "Clash of the Titans" as the backdrop for the final battle with the Kraken.
Geologists had warned for years that sea erosion undermining the arch's pillar was irreversible. On 8 March 2017, after a fierce northwesterly storm, the Azure Window collapsed into the sea. The moment was captured on video by a tourist standing on the cliffs. The news went worldwide. Malta's Prime Minister Joseph Muscat wrote: "We lost a heart that drew tourists from around the world."
The arch's remains now lie on the seabed at 8-15 metres depth, creating an artificial reef and a phenomenal dive site. Corals and marine life have rapidly colonised the rocky debris. The clifftop viewpoint still offers spectacular views over the Mediterranean and nearby Fungus Rock.
Practical tip: Though the Azure Window is gone, the Dwejra cliffs are still magnificent. Come at sunset and combine with Blue Hole and the Inland Sea. Divers can explore the arch's underwater ruins.
In what year did the Azure Window collapse?
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The site is near the Blue Hole and Inland Sea. Plan to visit all three Dwejra attractions together.
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Gozo served as a Game of Thrones filming location in Season 1. The Azure Window became Pentos, where Daenerys wed Khal Drogo. Production moved to Croatia from Season 2.
The Blue Hole at Dwejra is a natural rock pool connected to the open sea by an 80-metre tunnel. It is ranked among the top 10 dive sites in Europe.
The Inland Sea is an inland lagoon connected to the open sea through an 80-metre tunnel in the cliff. Fishermen have sailed their luzzu through the tunnel for centuries.