Küstenhöhlen

Küstenhöhlen, also known as sea caves, are natural hollows or chambers found in coastal cliffs. They form through the erosive action of the sea, primarily driven by wave action, abrasion, and hydraulic pressure. Waves repeatedly strike the base of the cliff, weakening the rock. Over time, this relentless erosion carves out cavities. Abrasion occurs as the waves carry sand and pebbles, which scour the rock surface like sandpaper. Hydraulic pressure, the force of water being compressed into existing cracks and fissures, can also widen and deepen these openings.

The formation process is influenced by the type of rock. Softer rocks like sandstone and limestone erode more readily than harder rocks such as granite. The presence of fault lines and joints in the rock can also accelerate the formation of küstenhöhlen, as these features provide initial weaknesses for the waves to exploit. Küstenhöhlen can vary significantly in size, from small hollows to vast caverns extending deep into the cliff face. Some may have multiple entrances and interconnecting passages. They are a common feature along coastlines worldwide, particularly those with rocky shores. These geological formations can provide habitats for various marine and terrestrial species, and some are of significant scientific and aesthetic interest.