 Top to bottom: Before and after the collapse | |
 | |
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Archipelago | Maltese Archipelago |
| Area | 190.34 m2 (2,048.8 sq ft) |
| Length | 17.65 m (57.91 ft) |
| Width | 1.72–13.44 m (5 ft 8 in – 44 ft 1 in) |
| Highest elevation | 4 m (13 ft) |
Għar Qawqla is alimestone formation located offMarsalforn on the island ofGozo in Malta. It was formerly anatural arch connected to the mainland,[1] but the span collapsed at some point during the 20th century. It has been speculated that the nameMarsalforn might be partially derived fromforna, referring to the natural sea caves of the area, of which Għar Qawqla was one of the best-known.[2] The formations stands about 7.9 metres (26 ft) off the shore.[3][4]
Today, all that remains of the arch is a 3-metre-tall (9.8 ft) pillar, from which both locals and tourists often jump into the sea.[2] A shallow natural pool is located nearby.[5] The area is also a diving site. It is mostly used for training purposes since it has been described as "not inspiring".[2][3]
36°04′27″N14°15′45″E / 36.07417°N 14.26250°E /36.07417; 14.26250
