Sightseeing below sea level has never been more captivating. Forget land-bound museums. Cyprus is elevating the travel experience by offering the chance to explore stunning statues beneath the ocean’s surface.

In August 2021, the Museum of Underwater Sculpture Ayia Napa (MUSAN) opened its doors, showcasing the artistic talent of sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. This museum is hailed as the first underwater museum in the Mediterranean Sea.

MUSAN is strategically situated 200 meters off the coast of Ayia Napa, a renowned resort town in southeastern Cyprus. The innovative design aims to mimic an underwater forest and features intricate sculptures of children playing alongside mythical characters.

The museum is designed to create a seamless connection between the land and the ocean. It seeks to provide visitors with ephemeral encounters with the enchanting natural beauty that lies beneath the water’s surface. As quoted from the museum’s website, the goal is to illustrate the bond between humanity and nature through a hybrid organic form that harmonizes with its environment.

Furthermore, MUSAN aims to promote conservation efforts and serves as a new ecosystem for aquatic life to flourish. Over time, reports indicate that sculptures will become adorned with marine biomass, enhancing their natural beauty.

Visitors to MUSAN can engage with this extraordinary museum through scuba diving or snorkeling adventures. Interested individuals should plan to visit via one of the nearby registered diving schools. While there is no entry fee to explore the museum, local diving schools may charge their own usage fees. For detailed information and to plan your visit, head to the MUSAN website.