Meeresbögen

Meeresbögen, also known as sea arches, are natural geological formations found along coastlines. They are created by the erosive forces of the sea, primarily wave action, on headlands and rocky shorelines. The process typically begins with a fissure or crack in the rock. Waves repeatedly crash against the rock, widening and deepening the fissure through hydraulic action, abrasion, and attrition. Over time, this erosion can penetrate through the entire headland, creating an opening.

The formation continues as wave action further erodes the sides and roof of the opening. The arch shape develops as the weaker parts of the rock are worn away more quickly, leaving a more resistant section to form the span. Eventually, the roof of the sea arch can collapse due to weathering, gravity, or continued wave undercutting. When this happens, the outer part of the headland becomes an isolated stack, while the remaining part of the arch may become a stump, a low-lying rock formation.

Sea arches are common in various coastal environments worldwide, particularly where there are exposed rock formations subjected to strong wave energy. They are dynamic features, constantly being shaped by the sea and will eventually disappear through collapse. Examples of famous sea arches include Durdle Door in Dorset, England, and the Twelve Apostles in Victoria, Australia. Their presence is often indicative of specific geological and oceanic conditions.