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Neptune Memorial Reef

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Neptune Memorial Reef

The Neptune Memorial Reef is an underwater columbarium in what was conceived by the creator as the world's largest artificial reef, covering over 600,000 square feet (56,000 m2) of ocean floor at a depth of 40 feet (12 m). It was originally conceived by Gary Levine and designed by artist Kim Brandel

l and known as the Atlantis Reef Project or the Atlantis Reef. As of 2012, the Reef occupies a one-half-acre (0.20 ha) space, but a planned expansion 16 acres (6.5 ha) is underway. The city design involves underwater roads leading to a central feature with benches and statuary. The place was chosen at 3.25 miles (5.2 km) off the coast of Key Biscayne, Florida. It is a type of burial at sea—Reef burials, and the first phase is estimated to be able to accommodate 850 remains, with an eventual goal of more than 125,000 remains. Though often referred to in news articles as an underwater mausoleum or underwater cemetery, the Neptune Society Memorial Reef meets the criteria for neither. Cremated remains are mixed with cement to form features of the Reef, and memorial plaques are added. The Reef is more correctly identified as a cremation memorial site or aquatic columbarium. The man-made reef...

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