The azure waters off the southern coast of Türkiye hold a secret world teeming with history, and few places illustrate this better than Kekova Island. This stunning gem, known for its crystal-clear waters and sunken ancient ruins, serves as the perfect gateway for an extraordinary underwater exploration led by renowned underwater archaeologist Hakan Öniz.
Hakan Öniz, a pioneer in underwater archaeology, has spent decades uncovering Türkiye’s submerged past. His expertise bridges history and marine science, making him a compelling guide to the treasures hidden beneath the waves. From Kekova’s shores, he invites viewers to dive into the depths of Türkiye’s coastal waters, revealing an underwater museum of shipwrecks, ancient ports, and cities lost to time.
The magic of Kekova
Kekova Island, located near the charming town of Demre in Antalya Province, is a UNESCO-protected area celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Its shallow waters are a haven for snorkelers and divers, offering views of the Sunken City of Simena. This Lycian-era city was partially submerged following earthquakes centuries ago, leaving behind ghostly stone structures visible just below the surface.
Under Hakan Öniz’s guidance, the island transforms into more than a scenic destination. Through his research and storytelling, the ruins come alive as markers of ancient trade routes, maritime technology, and cultural exchange that shaped Mediterranean history.
A journey through submerged time
Öniz’s work doesn’t stop at Kekova. Turkey’s coastline, spanning the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, is dotted with underwater archaeological sites that date back thousands of years. He has led expeditions uncovering Bronze Age shipwrecks, Byzantine-era harbours, and Roman amphorae fields. Each discovery adds another piece to the puzzle of human history, shedding light on the civilizations that once thrived along these shores.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Öniz’s approach is his ability to merge cutting-edge technology with traditional archaeological methods. Using underwater drones, 3D mapping, and advanced imaging techniques, he captures the essence of these submerged wonders for a global audience, making them accessible to anyone with a thirst for adventure and knowledge.
Protecting Türkiye’s underwater heritage
As a passionate advocate for the preservation of underwater cultural heritage, Hakan Öniz underscores the importance of sustainable tourism and strict regulations in safeguarding sites like Kekova. Türkiye’s underwater world faces threats from looting, pollution, and unregulated diving, making his mission all the more urgent.
By raising awareness through media and educational projects, Öniz inspires both locals and visitors to cherish and protect this fragile underwater legacy. His efforts highlight how preserving history is not just about conserving artefacts but also about maintaining the stories that connect humanity across generations.
An invitation to dive into history
From the Sunken City of Kekova to the depths of the Mediterranean, Hakan Öniz takes us on a journey that transcends time and space. Through his work, he reveals Türkiye’s underwater treasures as not only archaeological wonders but also windows into the shared heritage of civilizations.
For those fortunate enough to experience Kekova firsthand or explore it through Öniz’s captivating narratives, the waters of southern Türkiye become more than a backdrop—they become a portal to the past, brimming with mystery and discovery.
Source: BBC Global
