The optical and magneto-optical behavior in periodically nanostructured surfaces at the threshold of surface continuity is revealed. We address Co films that evolve from an island-like array to a connecting network of islands that form a membrane pattern. The analysis of magneto-optical spectra as well as numerical simulations show significant differences between continuous and broken membranes that depend dramatically on the energy of the incoming radiation. Light localization increases the magneto-optical signal in the membranes. However, the generation of hot spots is not accompanied with magneto-optic enhancement. The electromagnetic field profile within the membrane system can explain the differences in the transmission and in the magneto-optic Kerr signal.
