Shi Cheng, often referred to as the "Lion City," was intentionally flooded in 1959 to make way for the Xinan hydroelectric dam.
The decision to submerge the city was a sacrifice made for progress, resulting in the displacement of its 300,000 residents.
For many years, Shi Cheng remained forgotten and hidden beneath the depths of Qiandao Lake. However, in 2001, divers rediscovered this submerged treasure, unveiling its astonishing preservation.
The city's structures, adorned with intricate carvings and architectural details, have defied the passage of time.
Exploring the sunken city is an adventure reserved for experienced divers due to its depth and challenging conditions.
The absence of salt water and the protection offered by the lake's freshwater have contributed to the city's exceptional state of preservation.
Temples, homes, and paved roads have remained intact, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Imperial China.
Qiu Feng, a local official responsible for tourism, sparked a surge of interest in the ancient city by proposing an innovative idea: transforming Shi Cheng into a captivating destination for diving enthusiasts and clubs.
By opening up Shi Cheng to diving clubs, Qiu Feng aimed to provide a unique and thrilling experience for divers from around the world.
The idea was met with enthusiasm, as it offered a rare chance to witness firsthand the astonishing preservation of an ancient city that had remained hidden for centuries.
“We were lucky. As soon as we dived into the lake, we found the outside wall of the town and even picked up a brick to prove it,” he said.
Adding to the intrigue of the underwater city, a significant portion of Shi Cheng remains uncharted and undiscovered.
The vastness of its submerged territory offers unexplored areas that continue to pique the curiosity of divers and researchers. This uncharted territory holds the potential for uncovering further secrets and hidden treasures that have yet to be revealed.
While the true origin of the city remains shrouded in mystery, experts have found compelling evidence linking the city walls and other architectural elements to the influential Ming and Qing dynasties.
These historical connections provide valuable insights into the city's past and its significance within the broader historical context of Imperial China.
Despite its historical and cultural significance, Shi Cheng's physical size may come as a surprise. The underwater city spans only about half a square kilometer (0.2 square miles). Although relatively compact, Shi Cheng's impact transcends its physical dimensions.
Within this confined space, divers and explorers have uncovered a wealth of preserved structures, temples, and paved roads, offering a glimpse into the vibrant past of this submerged metropolis.
