More than half a century ago, the ancient city of Shicheng City, located in Zhejiang province, seemed to disappear without a trace. But this is not at all true. In fact, the valley in which Shicheng was located was turned into an artificial Qiandaohu reservoir for the construction of a new hydroelectric power station.
To do this, the authorities had to relocate 290,000 people, whose families have lived within these walls for centuries. After that, a dam was erected and as the water level rose, the city found itself at the bottom of this lake. From now on, Qiandaohu or "Lake of a Thousand Islands" is an underwater tomb for the city founded in 670 and bearing the proud name "Lion City".
Before the flooding, the city had 5 city gates with towers, 6 main stone streets that connected every corner of the city. Here, every detail deserves special attention. Now this unusual place is a popular diving mecca.
Surprisingly, the depth of 26-40 meters hides Shichen, untouched by years of underwater imprisonment. More than half a century later, even the wooden beams and staircases are in good condition, as if time in Lion City was flowing somehow differently … The Chinese National Geography team called Shicheng “the Chinese Atlantis” and published the photographs you can observe now.
A creepy dead city or a mysterious underwater kingdom? Everyone has their own opinion on this matter, but certainly this place with a rich and ancient history is worthy of attention not only for divers, but also for archaeologists.
Promotional video:
Moreover, no one and nothing will now prevent your acquaintance with the Lion City. Entering any house or touching the roof of the tallest building - nothing is impossible here anymore.