The “fragile” landmark beloved by tourists collapsed after years of fears | The world | news
Jimbo Cave, a famous ice structure in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego National Park, has collapsed, leaving locals and nature lovers mourning the loss of one of the region’s most treasured landmarks.
The collapse occurred on Sunday, but no injuries were reported, as access to the site has been restricted to visitors since 2021 due to safety concerns caused by erosion.
Celebrated for its stunning natural tunnel shape and intricate patterns of ice and rock, Jimbo Cave attracts visitors from around the world to Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth.
However, years of natural erosion and inadequate regulations regarding tourist activity have made the site increasingly vulnerable.
Scientists from the Australian Center for Scientific Research have long warned of the cave’s instability.
Their studies revealed that the ice formation, located 700 meters above sea level, was vulnerable to ice detachment and rock fragments, creating an increased risk of collapse.
A spokesperson for Tierra del Fuego National Park said: “Jimbo Cave was a geological marvel, but its fragile nature was always evident. Small detachments over the years were clear signs of eventual collapse.”
Although access was restricted, the site remained a magnet for thrill seekers.
In 2022, 37-year-old Brazilian tourist Dennis Marin ventured into the cave and suffered fatal injuries due to falling ice.
Warnings have been posted at the entrance to the site for nearly five years, with signs warning visitors: “Do not enter under any circumstances! Rocks and ice falling. It looks unbelievable from the outside.”
The collapse coincides with a heatwave warning in southern Patagonia, including Tierra del Fuego, which likely accelerated the deterioration of the ice.
Rising temperatures and changing climate conditions have increasingly threatened fragile formations like Gimpo Cave.
Experts stressed the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable ecosystems.
“Although tourism is vital to areas like Tierra del Fuego, the collapse of Jimbo Cave highlights the importance of balancing exploration with environmental conservation,” said a local conservationist.
The collapse of Jimbo Cave has left a void in the natural heritage of Tierra del Fuego. Viral videos of the cave’s dramatic collapse were shared widely, accompanied by heartfelt messages from those lucky enough to witness the cave’s beauty in person.
Locals said: “It is an irreparable loss. Gimpo Cave was more than just a tourist attraction, it was a symbol of our connection to nature and the delicate balance required to protect it.”
Authorities and environmental groups are now considering steps to evaluate and preserve other geological features in the area.
