Underwater Sculpture Park

There are about 500 sculptures at the very bottom of the Caribbean. Lara Croft, Tomb Raider, could only dream of such an adventure. But the British sculptor Jason de Caires Taylor decided to make these dreams true. He created the world-famous underwater sculpture park off the coast of Cancun.

Initially, this experienced diver, sculptor, and member of the environmental movement created this project with one single goal - to achieve a balance of the marine environment and preserve coral reefs. Sculptures should function as artificial reefs and be a base of filter clams’ binding. But the first 4 exhibits, installed in 2009, attracted much attention. The master decided to continue his work and kill two birds with one stone. From one side, the underwater park distracts tourists from the natural coral reefs. From the second one, it is one of the most interesting tourist sites in the world. So, it is economically feasible. 

The global project is called The Silent Evolution. All figures are made in full growth. The models were the locals, posing for the master. These figures are located on a concrete pedestal of more than 2 tons at a depth of 10 meters. So, sculptures are protected from waves hits or strong currents. For 1.5 years, Jason Taylor was making his “architectural miracle” out of steel wire and environmentally friendly concrete. In 2010, all creative exhibits were putting down. 

Now, the underwater park has an area of 800 square meters and more than 400 sculptures. A mysterious girl in a hat, a cyclist, a journalist, and even a monk. All they remind of nature preservation from the time of the ancient Mayan civilization to the present day, and the need to take care of our beautiful planet.