Italy's Lovers' Arch collapses on Valentine's Day

By Ilayda Cakirtekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - Italy's famous Lovers' Arch collapsed into the sea on Valentine's Day, local media reported on Monday.

Heavy rains and powerful waves triggered by severe weather have wiped out the famous rock formation in Melendugno, in southern Italy’s Puglia region, according to Rai News.

“It’s an extremely painful blow to the heart,” Mayor Maurizio Cisternino said.

Puglia's Salento coastline has been reportedly affected by erosion for years.

Authorities warned that the collapse of the arch raises concerns both for safety and for environmental conservation, as the coastline is at risk of further erosion.