Tucked away in the central region of Turkey lies one of the world’s most enigmatic and captivating destinations—Cappadocia. Known for its surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and ancient rock formations, Cappadocia also harbors a secret beneath its surface: underground cities that once provided refuge and shelter for thousands. Visiting these subterranean wonders offers an unforgettable experience, immersing travelers in a mysterious and historical journey deep below the Earth.
The underground cities of Cappadocia are a marvel of human ingenuity. Thought to date back to at least the 8th century BCE, these cities were initially used by the Hittites and later expanded by Christians seeking refuge from invaders. They are essentially massive labyrinths of tunnels and chambers that descend as far as 200 feet below ground. The two most famous underground cities, Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, showcase a complex network of rooms, churches, storage facilities, kitchens, and even stables. These hidden metropolises were equipped to house entire communities for months at a time, with ventilation shafts and wells providing essential air and water.
Derinkuyu, the largest of Cappadocia’s underground cities, stretches across 18 levels, although only eight are accessible to the public. As you descend through the narrow passageways, you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time. Walking through the intricate maze of rooms, you can imagine how the inhabitants lived, worked, and worshipped in the darkness. One of the most remarkable aspects of Derinkuyu is its advanced engineering. The city includes a sophisticated ventilation system, wine and oil presses, kitchens, and communal spaces. There’s even an underground church and a school where children would have been taught. It’s fascinating to think about the thousands of people who lived here, creating an entire world underground to protect themselves from the dangers above.
Kaymakli, another major underground city, is equally fascinating but more spread out than Derinkuyu. The city consists of eight floors, four of which are open to visitors. Each room and tunnel has a specific purpose—some were used as living spaces, while others served as kitchens, wineries, or workshops. What’s unique about Kaymakli is its ability to house both people and their livestock. The animal stalls are located on the upper levels, while the lower levels were designed for human inhabitants. Walking through these chambers, you’ll see evidence of daily life in an underground community—carved shelves, storage jars, and hearths. Kaymakli gives you a vivid glimpse of the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who once lived there.
One of the most mind-boggling aspects of these underground cities is the level of engineering expertise required to build them. Digging into the soft volcanic rock of Cappadocia was relatively easy, but maintaining the structural integrity of a city so deep underground was a monumental challenge. The architects cleverly designed defense mechanisms, such as rolling stone doors, that could seal off sections of the city in case of invasion. The ventilation shafts were also masterfully engineered to provide fresh air, even at the deepest levels.
While the underground cities are awe-inspiring, Cappadocia offers plenty to explore above ground as well. The region is famous for its hot air balloon rides, offering panoramic views of the "fairy chimneys" and otherworldly landscapes. Visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, allows you to explore ancient rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes. After a day of exploration, indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine at one of Cappadocia’s many local restaurants, where you can savor dishes like testi kebab, cooked in a clay pot.
Location Cappadocia is located in the Nevşehir Province of Turkey. The underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are about a 30-minute drive from the region’s main town, Göreme.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Cappadocia is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.
What to Bring Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, both above and below ground. The underground cities can be cool, even in summer, so bring a light jacket.
Travel Tips It’s easy to get lost in the maze-like tunnels, so consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of these ancient wonders. Don’t forget to take breaks if you feel claustrophobic, as the narrow tunnels can be a bit overwhelming.
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Visiting the underground cities of Cappadocia is like stepping into another world. These hidden labyrinths tell a story of resilience, faith, and human creativity that has survived for thousands of years. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply curious about the marvels of ancient engineering, Cappadocia’s underground cities are an unforgettable journey into the past. If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, be sure to make time to explore this extraordinary underground wonderland—it’s a travel experience like no other.
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