All over the world, bodies of water hide countless fascinating secrets. In Egypt, China and Japan, for example, there are true underwater treasures, with entire cities that have been swallowed up by the tides. Furthermore, unlike the legend of Atlantis, these sunken cities are real and carry with them their own enigmas.
With their grandiose buildings and historic temples, these places have been explored by researchers, revealing millennia of history and offering a glimpse into the lives of their ancient inhabitants. Discover 3 civilizations that were submerged by water, but that hide the greatest beauties in the world!
1. Shi Cheng – China
In the depths of Lake Quiandao lies one of the most impressive underwater cities ever discovered: Shi Cheng, the “Chinese Atlantis”. In Mandarin, its name means “Lion City”. Located 40 kilometers from Shanghai, this region was an important political and economic center of the Zhejiang province.
Built in the 1st century during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Shi Cheng was submerged in 1959 to allow for the construction of the country’s first hydroelectric power plant on the Xin River. Therefore, the Chinese government created an artificial lake between the Five Lions Mountains to make the project possible, resulting in the sinking of the ancient city.
2. Yonaguni-Jima – Japan
Known as the Yonaguni Monument, this imposing underwater structure has sparked much debate among researchers. It is also located at a depth of 25 meters.
An intriguing rock formation features large stone slabs carefully arranged in steps, resembling a rectangular pyramid.
This colossal structure, measuring 50 meters long and 20 meters wide, remains an enigma. Explorers are still unable to determine whether the site is a human-made structure or a natural rock formation. However, it may be over 10,000 years old.
3. Thonis-Heracleion – Egypt
For centuries, the Egyptian city of Thonis-Heracleion was believed to be nothing more than a myth, until underwater archaeologists discovered it in 2000. Among the many legends surrounding this ancient city is one that claims it housed the temple where Cleopatra was crowned queen.
2,300 years ago, Heracleion was one of the world’s major port centers. Majestic and powerful, it was situated on the Abu Qir Bay in the Nile Delta. However, after the founding of Alexandria by Alexander the Great around 331 BC, Heracleion lost its prominent position.
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