In the clear waters near Japan’s Yonaguni Island, a striking formation awaits discovery. Just below the surface, the Yonaguni Monument rises like an ancient citadel, echoing tales of a lost civilization. At its highest point, it sits about 6 meters (20 feet) underwater, stretching all the way down to 24 meters.
Most geologists agree it’s not the remnant of an ancient city but a natural wonder. The stepped sandstone and mudstone shape was formed by tectonic activity and erosion over thousands of years. The smooth edges and terraces are unusual for natural formations of this scale, prompting many to liken it to pyramids or ziggurats.
The monument was discovered in 1987 by diving instructor Kihachiro Aratake. Its unique form quickly captured the interest of geologists. Masaaki Kimura, a geologist from the University of the Ryukyus, proposed that this structure might have been shaped by human hands, submerged due to rising sea levels around 10,000 years ago. However, many experts disagree with this theory.
While there are few peer-reviewed studies focused solely on Yonaguni, broader geological evidence supports the idea that natural processes created its intriguing form. The Earth can produce surprisingly geometric formations, like the hexagonal columns at Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway or the sharp cliffs at Norway’s Pulpit Rock. Such features challenge our understanding of nature’s artistry.
According to Robert Schoch, a geologist from Boston University, the frequent earthquakes in the area could fracture the rocks in a regular manner, shaping the monument as we see it today. The location is part of a fault zone, which contributes to significant geological activity. The movement of tectonic plates can create neat fractures, adding to the monument’s stepped appearance.
Additionally, the relentless ocean currents wear down the rocks, sculpting their edges and amplifying the monument’s striking features. Nearby rock formations on Yonaguni Island show a similar arrangement but are more eroded, suggesting that time and nature have played critical roles in shaping them.
Recent findings from a study led by Hironobu Suga of Kyushu University indicated that no archaeological evidence supports human involvement at Yonaguni. Instead, the evidence points to natural erosion processes creating formations that might appear manmade but are, in fact, products of Earth’s geological forces.
The allure of the Yonaguni Monument lies not only in its mysterious beauty but also in the debate it ignites about our planet’s capabilities. As nature continues its work, it reminds us of its power, creativity, and mystery. The story of the Yonaguni Monument is a testament to what can emerge over time through patience and Earth’s dynamic processes.
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