For over two millennia, the lost city of Atlantis has captivated explorers, remaining one of the greatest mysteries in world history, with its existence and location still debated. Meanwhile, maps showing the locations of “real” lost cities are being created.
British researchers have developed an interactive map displaying the locations and information about mysterious sunken cities discovered by archaeologists around the world.
THONIS-HERACLEION CITY – EGYPT
The city of Thonis-Heracleion was discovered off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt in 2000 when divers encountered submerged ruins. Built 2,700 years ago, Thonis-Heracleion served as ancient Egypt’s gateway to the Mediterranean. It was a port city established on interconnected islands and marshes. The city, famous in its time, was submerged following an earthquake.
BAIAE – ITALY
Two thousand years ago, Baiae was Italy’s Las Vegas. A true Roman “sin city,” Baiae was an unending party town where the empire’s wealthy elite came to relax. It is believed that the city slid into the Bay of Naples due to an earthquake.
PAVLOPETRI – GREECE
In Greece, the ancient city of Pavlopetri was submerged and drifted into the Mediterranean due to rising sea levels during the Bronze Age. It was a marvel of ancient civilization, accommodating up to 2,000 people. With its semi-detached houses, gardens, and orderly streets, it showcased the strength of an early advanced civilization.
ATLIT YAM – ISRAEL
The underwater ruins of Atlit Yam off the coast of Israel date back to 7000 BC. It is noted that the sunken city has been exceptionally well-preserved underwater. Archaeologists even found remnants of ancient insects in grain silos. The purpose of the stone circle found underwater remains a mystery.
RUNGHOLT – GERMANY
The town of Rungholt in Germany was once a wealthy trading center in the North Sea, hosting 3,000 people. However, it was destroyed by a major flood disaster. It was determined that the town was flooded during a storm in 1362.
