There are various theories regarding the decline of Atlantis regardless of whether it existed or not. Among these theories are a great flood, disastrous earthquakes, volcanic upheavals, the misuse of great power, and the actual sinking of Atlantis.

While many believe that the decline of Atlantis was brought about by the misuse of power by its people or as a punishment for moral decay, we will focus on its decline by possible natural disasters. According to Plato, our only solid reference of Atlantis and the philosopher who created such controversy, Atlantis was suddenly consumed by a great natural cataclysm. In fact, because of this Atlantis often thought to be a parallel of Thera which was destroyed in a massive volcanic eruption.

                                         Cataclysms which may have brought about the end of Atlantis