8 cities that are completely underwater

Throughout history, civilisations have been drawn to settle near bodies of water, but what occurs when those waters reclaim the land? Over the ages, numerous cities worldwide have found themselves submerged underwater due to natural calamities, rising sea levels, or deliberate flooding for dam projects. These sunken cities serve as poignant reminders of nature's immense power. Here are eight cities that now lie completely underwater.

Once a bustling port city situated at the Nile River's mouth, Heracleion thrived as a significant trade center in ancient Egypt. However, succumbing to natural catastrophes and rising sea levels, the city gradually vanished beneath the Mediterranean Sea. Rediscovered by underwater archaeologists, Heracleion now stands as an underwater archaeological marvel, shedding light on ancient Egyptian civilization.

During the 17th century, Port Royal emerged as a notorious pirate haven and one of the Caribbean's wealthiest cities. Yet, in 1692, a devastating earthquake struck, causing much of the city to plunge into the sea. Today, Port Royal remains a favoured diving site, allowing explorers to delve into the submerged ruins of its once-vibrant streets.

Steeped in Hindu mythology, Dwarka is reputed to be the legendary city of Lord Krishna, chronicled in ancient texts like the Mahabharata. Believed to have submerged underwater thousands of years ago, Dwarka has captivated archaeologists and historians for generations. While submerged ruins discovered off the Gujarat coast fuel speculation, the exact location of this mythical city remains a subject of debate.

Off Japan's Ryukyu Islands lies the submerged city of Yonaguni-Jima. Uncovered in the 1980s by a diver, its underwater structures have ignited controversy among archaeologists. While some argue they are natural rock formations, others assert they are man-made ruins dating back millennia. Regardless of their origin, these formations continue to intrigue visitors and scientists alike.

Once known as the Las Vegas of ancient Rome, Baiae was a hedonistic hotspot along the Mediterranean coast. However, it met its watery demise, most likely due to volcanic activity. Today, the 2,000-year-old remains lie remarkably intact beneath the sea, offering snorkelers a glimpse into ancient extravagance.

Dating back to the Bronze Age, Pavlopetri ranks among the world's oldest submerged cities. Discovered off the coast of southern Laconia in Greece in 1967, its well-preserved ruins illuminate ancient urban planning and maritime trade in the Aegean Sea.

Established as a tourist resort, Villa Epecuen thrived until 1985 when floods broke Lake Epecuen's dam, submerging the town over eight years. Today, the eerie city grid, dead trees, and empty marina stand as haunting reminders of its former vitality.

Sunken beneath the waters of Qiandao Lake in Zhejiang Province, China, Lion City, or Shi Cheng, was founded over 1,300 years ago. Submerged in 1959 during the construction of the Xin'an River Hydropower Station, it now lures divers and underwater photographers with its well-preserved relics.