Throughout history, civilizations have consistently settled near water sources. However, some of these locations have been submerged underwater. Across the world, several cities have disappeared beneath the waves due to natural disasters, rising sea levels, or deliberate flooding for dam projects. These submerged cities serve as reminders of nature’s power. Here are eight cities that now lie entirely beneath the sea.
8. Lion City, China
Lion City, also known as Shi Cheng, rests beneath the waters of Qiandao Lake in Zhejiang Province, China. Established over a thousand years ago, it was submerged in 1959 following the construction of the Xin’an River Hydropower Station. Today, it draws divers and underwater photographers fascinated by its remarkably intact historical relics.
7. Villa Epecuén, Argentina
Originally developed as a tourist resort, Villa Epecuen flourished until 1985 when floods breached the dam of Lake Epecuen, gradually submerging the town over eight years. Today, the ghostly city grid, lifeless trees, and abandoned marina serve as poignant reminders of its once vibrant existence.
6. Pavlopetri, Greece
Pavlopetri, an underwater city dating back to the Bronze Age, is regarded as one of the world’s oldest submerged cities. Discovered off the coast of southern Laconia in Greece in 1967, its ruins provide a unique insight into ancient urban planning and maritime trade in the Aegean region.
5. Baiae, Italy
Baiae, often compared to ancient Rome’s Las Vegas, was a hub of extravagance along the Mediterranean. Its decline is attributed to volcanic eruptions. Today, remarkably preserved ruins from over two thousand years ago lie submerged, offering snorkelers a glimpse into the lavishness of bygone eras.
4. Yonaguni-Jima, Japan
In the waters near Japan’s Ryukyu Islands, the submerged city of Yonaguni-Jima was found in the 1980s. The underwater structures at this site have stirred debate among archaeologists, with some arguing they are natural formations and others asserting they are ancient man-made ruins. Despite varying opinions about their origins, these formations continue to captivate tourists and researchers alike.
3. Dwarka, India
Shrouded in Hindu mythology, Dwarka is believed to be the legendary city of Lord Krishna, described in ancient texts like the Mahabharata. According to legend, it disappeared underwater thousands of years ago, intriguing archaeologists and historians. The finding of submerged ruins off the coast of Gujarat has fueled further debate, yet the exact location of this mythical city remains a subject of disagreement.
2. Port Royal, Jamaica
During the 17th century, Port Royal gained notoriety as a pirate haven and emerged as one of the wealthiest cities in the Caribbean. However, in 1692, an earthquake devastated the city, causing a substantial portion of it to sink beneath the sea. Today, Port Royal attracts divers keen to explore the submerged remnants of its vibrant history.
1. Heracleion, Egypt
Heracleion, once a thriving port city located at the Nile Delta, was a significant hub of commerce in ancient Egypt. Over time, it was submerged due to natural calamities and the gradual rise of sea levels, eventually disappearing beneath the Mediterranean. Its rediscovery by underwater archaeologists has transformed it into an underwater archaeological site, offering insights into ancient Egyptian civilization.