One day, Kihachiro Aratake went beneath the waves off the coast of Yunaguni Island. He is a seasoned diver who has been exploring the area for years. While diving, he noticed something unusual – large, flat stone structures that seemed to rise from the seabed in perfect geometric formations. At first, he thought it might be a natural rock, but the sharp edges and seemingly intentional layout of the stones amazed him.
The Yonaguni Monument implies that it might be the remnants of a long-lost human-built ruin. Some claim that it is a naturally occurring structure. It is an enigmatic underwater location found close to the coast of Yonaguni, a small island in Japan’s Ryukyu Islands.
Discovery
In 1986, it was first discovered by Kihachiro Aratake, a diver from Japan. During his dive, he came across a rock formation. At first, Aratake thought the formation was a natural rock structure. After-that, with further examination, he observed features that seemed excessively consistent and equal to be completely geological.
Location
This historic site is located approximately 25 meters (82 feet) below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, near the southern tip of Yonaguni Island.
Structure and Features
The “monument” is a huge, submerged formation made of enormous stone blocks and terraces that make it feel like it has been cut and shaped by human hands. Some of the most famous features include:
Flat terraces: Wide, flat surfaces stacked in layers, that look like stairs.
Sharp edges and right angles: The site contains several features that make one feel that, it is man-made structures, such as straight edges and right angles, which seem very unusual for natural rock formations.
Pillars and monolithic blocks: Some parts of the monument show large vertical pillars, while others are huge, flat blocks that could resemble stonework used in ancient construction.
Tunnels and pathways: this monument has small passages and tunnels, which further fuel speculation about whether it was crafted intentionally.
Theories on Its Origin
Some believe that the monument was built by an ancient civilization probably 10,000 years ago. Supporters of this theory claim that the arrangement is so symmetrical and intricate that it cannot be a natural occurrence, suggesting it could have been a city or ceremonial location, potentially sunken because of increasing sea levels or a historical catastrophe.
Others claimed that the monument is simply a naturally occurring rock formation shaped by geoid forces and ocean currents. They use geological formations like the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland as examples to show that nature can create formations that look like man-made structures.
Geological Characteristics
The main composition of the structure is sandstone, which is susceptible to erosion.Water erosion and tectonic activity may have played a role in forming structures that mimic man-made architecture.This encompasses the flat edges, platforms, and vertical pillars.
Cultural Significance
The Yonaguni Monument, whether created by humans or formed naturally, has become a central focus for cultural and archaeological research. Tourists and scuba divers from around the globe are attracted to its enigmatic look .It has also sparked discussion within the larger scope of prehistoric human history, particularly in relation to the idea of sophisticated ancient societies that may have disappeared in the course of time.
A number of specialists are still researching the location, analyzing both its geological origin and the potential for human participation. The region has been investigated by submarine expeditions and divers, yet the argument about its beginnings is still inconclusive. The Yonaguni Monument (also known as Yonaguni’s Ruin) is an intriguing and enigmatic underwater formation, sparking ongoing debate about its origins. While some think it is the remains of a past society, others argue that it is just a natural structure formed by natural processes. Nevertheless, it continues to stand as a distinctive and fascinating point of interest, providing an understanding into both the Earth’s composition and human creativity.
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Writer,
Sumaiya Nusrat
Intern,
Content Writing department
YSSE.