- World News. AI predicts when a major global blackout will happen... and it's not long away
- World News. Surprise in Peru after a perfectly preserved 5,000-year-old mummy appears at a waste plant
For the first time in decades, a colossal visitor emerged from the deep near Marbella's shoreline, capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike.
On Sunday, May 18, the usually calm waters of Marbella became the backdrop for a rare and astonishing event: a basking shark, the second largest fish species on the planet, was spotted gliding near recreational boats. Measuring up to 12 meters in length and capable of filtering thousands of liters of water per hour, this marine giant served as a living reminder of the untamed wonders that still inhabit the Mediterranean.
The sighting was recorded by instructors from the Aqua Time Marbella water sports club, who were training a diving group at the time. What first appeared as a long, dark silhouette beneath the surface revealed itself as an adult Cetorhinus maximus, a species seldom seen this close to shore. Despite its intimidating size and gaping mouth, the basking shark is entirely harmless, feeding exclusively on plankton and small organisms.
What struck observers wasn't just the size of the animal, but the meaning behind its presence. It's been more than 35 years since a specimen has come this close to the Costa del Sol. Some marine biologists interpret this return as a hopeful sign of improved water quality and a recovering ecosystem. Others caution that the animal may be disoriented due to shifting ocean currents and rising sea temperatures.
Either way, the basking shark's appearance has sparked awe, curiosity, and reflection among Marbella residents. The video is already making the rounds on social media, but beyond the viral buzz, the message is clear: the Mediterranean still holds majestic secrets, and protecting it is more urgent than ever.