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Did you know that real underwater cities exist around the world? Some were submerged due to flooding, while others were drowned by reservoirs and waterways. If you’re intrigued by these hidden wonders, here are seven actual cities that lie entirely underwater, making them must-see destinations for your travel wishlist.
1. Port Royal, Jamaica
On June 7, a massive earthquake followed by a tsunami submerged the city of Port Royal, killing 2,000 people. Once known as the “wickedest city on earth,” it was home to real-life pirates of the Caribbean. Many believed its sinking was an act of God. Today, Port Royal is one of the best-preserved underwater cities in the world, with only a few artefacts removed and placed in Jamaican museums. Visitors can scuba dive into this underwater city with permission from the authorities.
2. Dwarka, India
Also known as the Gateway to Heaven, the city of Dwarka was discovered in 1988, submerged about 100 feet below the Gulf of Cambay. Underwater explorers found ancient structures, grids, pillars, and artefacts. Some believe the city is at least 10,000 years old, while others think it is around 5,000 years old. There are also claims that Gujarat Sultan Mahmud Begada attacked and destroyed the temple of Dwarka in 1473.
3. Baia, Italy
This underwater city, Baia, was once a hotspot for pirates and hedonistic Romans, earning it the nickname “Las Vegas of ancient Rome.” Baia likely sank due to the region’s active volcanic activity. Most of the city lies under 20 feet underwater, with 2,000-year-old remains preserved in nearly perfect condition.
4. Pavlopetri, Greece
Archaeologists estimate that Pavlopetri is around 5,000 years old, making it the oldest underwater city. Discovered in 1967, what seemed like ancient ruins turned out to be a prehistoric town. A survey in 1968 revealed a Mycenaean-era city plan submerged under 3 to 12 feet of water in the Peloponnese. Jon Henderson from the University of Nottingham stated, “It is a unique discovery as we have found an almost complete city on the seabed, with streets, buildings, gardens, tombs, and what appears to be a religious complex.”
5. The Lost Villages of Ontario, Canada
The “Lost Villages” include 10 Canadian towns once part of Cornwall and Osnabruck in Ontario. These towns were submerged in the 1950s when a dam was built across the St. Lawrence River to create a waterway. Today, buildings and sidewalks from these towns are still visible above the water’s surface in some areas.
6. Atlit-Yam, Israel
This Neolithic settlement off the coast of Israel in the Mediterranean Sea is about 8,000 years old. While many underwater sites claim to be the oldest, Atlit-Yam has solid evidence to support its title. Discovered in 1984, 30 feet underwater, the site revealed graves, buildings, and unusual skeletons. The most fascinating find was a circle of seven megaliths, resembling an underwater Stonehenge. It is believed that an earthquake followed by a tsunami caused the settlement to submerge.
7. Phanagoria, Russia
Once the largest city in ancient Greece and the capital of the Bosporan Kingdom, Phanagoria was founded around 540 BC. It spanned the Taman Peninsula in the Black Sea, now part of Russia. Today, a third of the old city is submerged in the Black Sea, while two-thirds remain on land. This makes Phanagoria a fascinating archaeological site where discoveries are still being made.
Conclusion
Exploring these submerged cities offers a captivating look into history. Each has its own intriguing tale, from Port Royal, once a pirate stronghold, to the ancient wonder of Dwarka. Whether submerged by natural disasters or human intervention, these sunken cities serve as underwater time capsules, waiting to be discovered. If you’re an adventure enthusiast or history lover, visiting these sites promises an unforgettable experience.
