Atlit-Yam Sunken City
Table of Contents
Atlit-Yam is among the most remarkably well-preserved examples of human development in existence. Dating back to about 9,000 years ago and discovered in 1984, the settlement shows signs of complex dwellings, basic building technology and even wells, proving that human settlers in the area had already come a long way in social and technological development, as early as 6,000 BC. The city stretches across an impressively large area off the coast of Atlit – an Israeli village – and the structures can be found at a depth of only 8-12 meters below the surface of the Mediterranean Sea.
Situated near the Oren river on the Carmel coast, Atlit Yam covers an area of just over 40 square kilometers, and has already been excavated quite extensively. While archeologists have found square dwelling structures and wells, they have also discovered curious clues, such as piles of fish near the area where the coastline used to be – clues and details you can discover yourself diving around the area.
These signs seem to point to the fact that the settlement was abandoned in a hurry, and volcano studies seem to suggest that Mt Etna erupted in that time period – about 8,500 years ago. The violent eruption not only seems to be the reason behind the sudden abandonment of the city, but may have been the cause of it being submerged, due to tidal waves that have affected certain other coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea as well. Yet the true mystery of the settlement is that, even after thousands of years, it has remained largely untouched.
Atlit Yam is an early city that dates back to the Neolithic era, around the 7th millennium BC. The submerged shipwrecks and settlements in the region are remarkably well-preserved and are able to show divers a clear window to the past of this unique community. Even the burial grounds are intact, offering an eerie view to the visitors. The site is huge, covering about 40 sq. km, and comprises twelve structures that have already been excavated, with courtyards and plazas between them – a landscape that will leave any diver in awe. Another interesting feature you will be able to see during your dive is a 5.5 m deep stone well at the bottom of which archeologists have discovered remnants of animal bones, wood and flint, suggesting that, at some point, the structured ceased to be used as a well, being turned into a disposal pit.
Today, Atlit Yam is considered one of Israel’s most famous prehistoric sites, and both scientists and tourist divers find it an incredibly interesting place to explore. Due to the relatively accessible depth and the gentle waters in the region, the city is quite easy to visit even by beginning divers. Atlit-Yam is seen by many as a modern day real life Neolithic “museum” that divers can investigate on a regular basis.
Nestled beneath the calm blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea lies Atlit-Yam, an archaeological marvel and testament to human resilience. This prehistoric village, dating back to the final prehistoric era, offers a unique snapshot of life during a time of pivotal change in human history. The site presents a remarkable opportunity to study the early stages of human settlement, agriculture, and adaptation to environmental shifts.
The Discovery of Atlit-Yam
The serendipitous discovery of Atlit-Yam in the early 1980s opened a new chapter in underwater archaeology. Located off the coast of Israel, this ancient site is thought to have been engulfed by the sea over 9,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. The village, now situated between 8-12 meters underwater, extends over an area of 40,000 square meters, offering a well-preserved glimpse into the past.
Unveiling the Secrets of an Ancient Civilization
Atlit-Yam provides an exceptional window into the Neolithic revolution, the time when humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled agriculturalists. The site’s well-defined structures include houses, wells, and even a mysterious stone circle. Artefacts such as tools, animal bones, and human remains have been meticulously preserved by the sea, providing invaluable insights into the dietary habits, health, and daily life of its inhabitants.
Architectural Ingenuity: Stone Age Construction
The architectural prowess of Atlit-Yam’s inhabitants is evident from the stone houses and public wells that have withstood millennia beneath the sea. These structures showcase the ingenuity of Neolithic construction techniques, reflecting an understanding of community planning and resource management.
The Enigmatic Stone Circle: A Ceremonial Monument
One of the most enigmatic features of Atlit-Yam is the stone circle. Comprising seven large stones, some with carved features, the circle has prompted numerous theories about its purpose. Suggestions range from a ritual site to an early form of astronomical observatory, indicating the sophistication of Neolithic spiritual and scientific thought.
The Daily Grind: Diet and Agriculture
Evidence of wheat, barley, and legumes, along with fishing paraphernalia, suggests that Atlit-Yam’s residents were skilled farmers and fishers. The variety of species found, including both domesticated and wild forms, implies a diverse and balanced diet and a deep understanding of agricultural practices and seasonal cycles.
Health and Disease: Lessons from the Past
The human remains at Atlit-Yam reveal the health challenges faced by its inhabitants. Studies of the skeletal remains have identified signs of tuberculosis, the earliest known case in humans. This finding is crucial for understanding the evolution of diseases and their impact on human communities.
The Submergence: An Ancient Environmental Catastrophe
The reason for Atlit-Yam’s sudden abandonment has been a subject of much speculation. Some researchers suggest a tsunami, while others point to gradual sea-level rise. Whatever the cause, the village’s submergence marks one of the earliest known natural disasters to have affected a human settlement.
The Preservation Paradox: Underwater Archaeology’s Race Against Time
While the sea has protected Atlit-Yam for thousands of years, it also poses a threat. The delicate balance of underwater preservation is at risk due to factors like pollution, unauthorized diving, and trawling. Preserving this site is not just about protecting the past; it’s about safeguarding our shared human heritage.
Conclusion
Atlit-Yam is more than an archaeological site; it is a bridge to our past, offering invaluable lessons for the future. It reminds us of the resilience and adaptability of our ancestors while highlighting the fragility of human settlements in the face of environmental change. As we continue to uncover its secrets, Atlit-Yam challenges us to consider our own place in the long arc of human history.