Did an Ancient Civilization Ever Live in Antarctica?

It’s time to pour a bucket of cold water on the innumerable theories, myths, and mysteries. Antarctica is not Atlantis.

By Benjamin Plackett
Jan 15, 2024 7:00 PM
A scuba diver discovers the lost city of Atlantis conceptual theme
Atlantis under the ice? Nope. (Credit: funstarts33/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

The southern polar regions are a forbidding place. Antarctica’s harsh climate and thick ice coverage have made archaeological explorations — or explorations of any kind — exceptionally challenging. This has added a sense of mystery to various theories that humans could once have occupied the continent as a permanent civilization.

Scientists, however, have given a decidedly chilly reception to the prevailing hypotheses. Let’s go through them one-by-one. 

Historic (and Hypothetical) Maps

This room in Kilitbahir Castle (Kalesi) is also known as the place where Piri Reis drew his contentious world map. (Credit: fotopanorama360/Shutterstock)
0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.