This fascinating site, which has been engulfed by rising waters for centuries, is now an underwater archaeologicalpark where history still lurks beneath the surface, full of marble statues, opulent villas and ancient temples.
The Roman "Las Vegas": a city of luxury and pleasure
In its time, Baia was the place where the richest and most powerful Romans clashed. While today it is mainly known for its sunken treasures, in ancient times Baia was synonymous with luxury and an exuberant lifestyle. The city was located in a volcanic area, and thanks to its thermal springs and beautifuland the beautiful views of the bay made it one of the most popular places for the elite of the time. Famous visitors included emperors such as Nero, Caligula and Caesar Augustus, who built magnificent villas to escape the stress of Roman political life.
Baia was the "Las Vegas" of the time, where grand banquets, social events and exuberant celebrations took place. But while the city flourished, beneath the surface lurked a force of nature that would ultimately decide its fate.
Lost beneath the surface
Baia, like nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum, had the misfortune of lying in a volcanically active area known as Campi Flegrei. This extensive volcanic system gradually caused the coastline to sink, gradually swallowing the city into the sea. Over the centuries, the agricultural and commercial district of Baie was submerged under the Gulf of Naples. While Pompeii was destroyed by the volcanic eruption, Baia was lost more slowly, bit by bit, until it became a completely submerged urban ruin.
Underwater Archaeological Park
Today, Baia is a unique destination for divers and history buffs. The Parco Archeologico Sommerso di Baia is an underwater archaeological park where visitors can explore fascinating ruins using diving equipment or glass-bottomed boats.
Marble statues, tile mosaics, ancient baths and sprawling villas that once served as holiday centres for the Roman elite are still to be found beneath the surface. Seeing these remains underwater is an experience that literally transports you to another world.
One of the most interesting artifacts is the Villa of Nero, where rich mosaics and the remains of impressive marble statues have been found. The entire site offers a fascinating glimpse of how ancient architecture and luxurious lifestyles continue beneath the surface of the sea, where they have been hidden from the eyes of the world for centuries.
The rise of interest in the sunken city
Although the sunken city was discovered several decades ago, it was only modern technology and archaeological research that allowed Baia to regain its lost glory. Thanks to the work of underwater archaeologists and divers, Baia is becoming an increasingly popular destination not only for divers, but also for ordinary tourists who want a glimpse of an ancient world lost beneath the surface.
After exploring the underwater world, you can take a walk along the coast, where some of the ruins of Roman villas and baths can still be found. The beautiful views over the bay and the islands of Ischia and Procida give this place a unique atmosphere.
