In recent decades, numerous underwater archaeological sites have been discovered along the Mediterranean coast of Israel, dating back to various periods in human history. These sites include a Kebaran site from 22,000 to 14,500 years ago, a Natufian site from 14,500 to 11,500 years ago, and several submerged Neolithic and early Chalcolithic sites. However, the most remarkable of these sites is undoubtedly the Pre-Pottery Neolithic site of Atlit-Yam.
This is a late Pre-Pottery Neolithic B site, although some classify it as Pre-Pottery Neolithic C, with continuous occupation dating from 9,400 to around 8,000 years ago.
It’s a large fishing village, a permanent settlement now lying 9-12 metres below sea level, off the coast of Israel, 10km south of Haifa, in the North Bay of the town of Atlit.
This is a truly incredible site with unique archaeology, including the world’s oldest example of a stone water well, a megalithic stone circle, rectangular dwellings, artefacts, human, animal and plant remains and more.
Although it was eventually swallowed up by the rising sea level, is this the reason Atlit-Yam came to an end? Some say yes, but others say there is evidence the settlement was struck by an enormous tsunami. Watch the video to learn more.
