Shicheng, dubbed the ‘Atlantis of the East,’ rediscovered decades after being submerged for progress

An exceptionally well-preserved 600-year-old underwater city, Shicheng, located in Qiandao Lake, Zhejiang Province, China, has recently gained attention for its impressive preservation despite being submerged since 1959. Often referred to as the ‘Atlantis of the East,’ Shicheng was intentionally flooded to make way for the Xin’an hydroelectric dam, and its rediscovery in 2001 has fascinated historians and divers alike. The submerged city, linked to the Ming and Qing dynasties, is now a popular site for experienced divers seeking to explore its perfectly preserved structures and carvings.

Shicheng, a 600-year-old city submerged in Qiandao Lake, Zhejiang Province, China, has gained renown for its exceptional preservation despite being underwater since 1959. The city, often called the ‘Atlantis of the East,’ was intentionally flooded to make way for the Xin’an hydroelectric dam, leading to the relocation of its 300,000 residents. Forgotten for decades, the city was rediscovered in 2001, lying 40 meters below the lake’s surface, and has since become a fascination for historians, divers, and tourists alike.

The preservation of Shicheng is attributed to its submersion in freshwater, devoid of salt, sunlight, and a marine ecosystem. This unique condition has allowed many features of the city to remain intact, making it an archaeological marvel. While the origin and history of the city remain a mystery, its architectural elements, including city walls, date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Shicheng’s well-preserved homes, temples, structures, and intricate carvings on 265 archways add to its historical significance.

In 2017, tourists gained access to Shicheng, allowing experienced divers to explore the underwater city. However, diving into Shicheng requires significant expertise, particularly in night, deep water, and exploratory diving. Some areas of the city remain undiscovered, contributing to its allure and mystery. With renewed interest sparked by publications and graphics in 2011, Shicheng continues to captivate individuals intrigued by its perfectly preserved structures and historical significance.