Recently, discussions have resurfaced on social media about a potential ancient sunken city off the coast of Cuba, prompting debates about lost civilizations in the Caribbean. Social media users are fascinated by the idea of hidden history, suggesting connections to the prehistoric legend of Atlantis. Speculation about the submerged site near Cuba is drawing attention, despite the lack of direct research for decades.
In 2001, marine engineers Paulina Zelitsky and Paul Weinzweig announced an intriguing find off the Guanahacabibes Peninsula. With sonar measurements, they recorded images of structures appearing to be organized developments, complete with large stone edifices resembling pyramids and circular formations. Covering roughly 2 square kilometers, these images led to hypotheses about an ancient city submerged at a depth of approximately 650 meters below sea level. Experts estimate that such constructions could date back over 6,000 years, potentially predating the Egyptian pyramids and challenging our understanding of human history.
Despite the allure of these findings, details remain shrouded in mystery due to the absence of continued research. In 2001, researchers revisited the site with more advanced equipment and enhanced sonar images. However, subsequent expeditions never materialized, largely due to political and financial obstacles. “An exploratory mission was canceled due to funding issues,” disclosed Sylvia Earle, an American oceanographer.
Skepticism about the proposed ancient city has been vocalized by several experts. Geologist Manuel Iturralde-Vinent expressed reservations, emphasizing the irregularity of the structures, which remain unexplained by existing geological knowledge. He cautioned that nature can craft formations that might mislead even seasoned researchers. Meanwhile, Michael Faught from Florida State University questioned the depth of the structures, arguing that they challenge our understanding of New World civilizations at the time.
Some scientists argue that the structures may simply be natural rock formations. Iturralde emphasized this skepticism, noting that if a city sank due to an earthquake as proposed, it would be unlikely to be preserved in such a defined state. Weinzweig, on the other hand, maintained that the sonar images showed organization and consistency that defied geological explanations.
The scientific community remains divided, with some proponents of the sunken city theory claiming that the lack of further exploration might stem from a deliberate neglect of the topic, perhaps to maintain established historical narratives. These sentiments are echoed online, with users expressing frustration over what they perceive as a hidden truth about the site.
The case of Cuba's sunken structures is likened to other enigmatic discoveries such as the Yonaguni Monument near Japan. Both have stirred controversy and intrigue due to their potential historical significance. Iturralde's pragmatic view articulates the complexity of the situation: “What looks human is not necessarily human.”
Without concrete evidence from direct field research, sampling, and dating, the mystery persists. As long as definitive proof is absent, the underwater formations off Cuba will continue to captivate the imagination of both the scientific community and the public.
Written with the help of a news-analysis system.