Galapagos’ Iconic Darwin Arch Loses Its Arch After Collapsing Into Ocean
Image via Shutterstock
If you’ve seen photographs of the Galapagos Islands, chances are you’d have come across its famous rock formation, also known as Darwin’s Arch.
Unfortunately, the top of the arch has fallen into the ocean. The Ministry of Environment for Ecuador announced the news on Twitter, saying it was “a consequence of natural erosion.” What’s left are the two side pillars rising out of the water, with the arch’s remains laying in the middle.
According to Travel Awaits, as the structure was shaped over time by natural conditions, it was only time before it would eventually erode and give way. Some in the diving and travel industry are now referring to the remaining pillars as ‘The Pillars of Evolution’, in a nod to Darwin.
The Galapagos Islands are a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was visited by scientist Charles Darwin during a voyage in the 1830s. It boasts many unique species of floral and fauna, and Darwin is said to have based his theory of evolution on some of his experiences on the islands.
Informamos que hoy 17 de mayo, se reportó el colapso del Arco de Darwin, el atractivo puente natural ubicado a menos de un kilómetro de la isla principal Darwin, la más norte del archipiélago de #Galápagos. Este suceso sería consecuencia de la erosión natural.
— Ministerio del Ambiente y Agua de Ecuador (@Ambiente_Ec) May 17, 2021
📷Héctor Barrera pic.twitter.com/lBZJWNbgHg
[via Travel Awaits, cover image via Shutterstock]
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