Delicate Arch, United States

Among the amazing arches located on the territory of the National Park in the state of Utah, unique Delicate Arch deserves particular attention. It is difficult to assume that this amazing natural object has been formed for millions of years under the influence of erosion and wind. An incredibly beautiful arch made of sandstone simply captivates the eye. The height of the arch is about 20 meters. For indigenous people it has long been an important national symbol.

The opening of the national monument took place in 1933 during one of the scientific expeditions. Already in the fifties of the last century scientists were concerned about the possibility of probable destruction of natural sculpture. They proposed to cover the arch with a thin layer of plastic to protect it from imminent destruction. However, this idea was found impractical, even without human intervention. Exquisite Delicate Arch continues to be in dignified form and attracts thousands of travellers from all over the world to the park. For many years, the arch has attracted professional photographers, each of which seeks to make unique images.

In 2000, an unpleasant incident occurred with a photographer Michael Fatali, who decided to make pictures of the arch at night and spread a fire under it. Under the influence of fire, the sandstone in the lower part lost its natural colour. For the damage caused to the national monument the photographer had to pay a fine of 10900 US dollars. Another scandal was associated with the name of the famous mountaineer Dean Potter. In May 2006, without a prior permission, he climbed the arch. There were obvious signs of using climbing equipment on the monument, but Potter's fault was not proved. Next - El Arco Cabo San Lucas