This incredible underwater city shows ancient history but it is submerged deep underwater.
Pavlopetri in Greece is a small islet off the coast of Laconia in the southern Peloponnese. Deep into the Mediterranean Sea, not many know about it.
It is the oldest ancient Greek city to have been discovered and those who are lucky enough to see it are constantly in awe.
The history of the city dates back nearly 5000 years to when its region would have been inhabited in the earliest years of Greek history.
Amazingly, it was only discovered 57 years ago by Nicholas Flemming. Referred to as a “lost city”, it is the oldest of its kind which has been discovered.
The city was discovered by accident as Flemming was using aerial photography to study the coastline when he noticed a series of unusual lines on the seabed. These lines were the first hint at what lay beneath.
Its name translates to “Paul’s Stone,” which is directly related to St. Peter and St. Paul, the two greatest Christian apostles and martyrs, who travelled far and wide spreading Christianity during the first century AD.
For those who want to see the site, snorkelling or scuba diving gear will be needed. The site is located just over four hours away from Athens if travelling by car.
In 1968, archaeologists from the University of Cambridge visited the site to map the entire location and determine the extent of the ancient lost city. It was determined that the city was inhabited in 2800 BC.
Other universities have since taken much interest in the site, the University of Nottingham started a five-year project to research the town in 2009.
The project was overseen by John C. Henderson, in collaboration with the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research and the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities of the Greek Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
It is believed that the site became submerged after a series of earthquakes.
