7. Christ of the Abyss, Italy
Christ of the Abyss actually refers to three large bronze statues, although the most famous one is that found off the coast of San Fruttuoso in the beautiful Italian Riviera. The statue, depicting Christ giving a benediction of peace, was placed 55 feet underwater after being inspired by pioneering scuba diver Duilio Marcante. Restored in 2003, the imposing statue stands just over eight feet in height.
8. Lake Kaindy, Kazakhstan
Nestled in the valley in the Tian Shan Mountains near the Chinese border, Lake Kaindy sports an underwater forest. The lake formed following an earthquake in 1911, after which rainwater filled the valley, drowning a portion of the forest. Due to the extremely low water temperature throughout the year, the husks of hundreds of pines remain standing. Divers can experience the unique underwater habitat that has grown around them.
9. Underwater Post Office, Vanuatu
The tiny island nation of Vanuatu is known for its exotic beaches and rich volcanic landscape, but it is also home to the world’s only underwater post office. If you’re in the area and hoping to send a waterproof postcard home, you’ll be able to dive down some 150 feet off the sandy coast of the idyllic Hideaway Island Resort to reach the funky post office. Gimmicky, sure, but fun nonetheless.
