Malta’s famous rock arch best known as “Azure Window” has collapsed into the sea after heavy storms.

Roger Chessell, from the village of Xaghra, told the Times of Malta: “There was a big raging sea beneath the window. Suddenly, the arch collapsed into the sea.”

According to the Times of Malta, a 2013 study said that while erosion was inevitable, the structure was not in imminent danger of collapsing.

Officials were forced in order to protect it and for safety reasons, to introduce signs and a fine to stop people from walking across the landmark. However, they were often ignored.

The popular limestone arch on Gozo island was featured on the first episode of the “Game of Thrones”.

Malta’s Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said on Twitter: “Reports commissioned over the years indicated that this landmark would be hard hit by unavoidable natural corrosion. That sad day arrived.”

(The less famous Wied il-Mielah window nearby is still standing)