About Derinkuyu Underground City
The ancient Derinkuyu Underground City lies in the Derinkuyu district in Nevşehir Province, Turkey. Cast into the bedrock of the Cappadocia region, this city is one of the most intriguing landmarks not just in Turkey, but in the whole world. The extensive network of tunnels and rooms, which goes down to a depth of around 60 meters, is a testament to the ingenuity and survival instincts of ancient civilizations.
History
Derinkuyu Underground City is thought to have been built during the Phrygian era in the 7th-8th centuries B.C., as a protective fortress against raids and invasions. Over time, it expanded into a fully functional city housing up to 20,000 people and livestock alongside food storages, wineries, schools, and other essential facilities. The city served as a shelter for the local population during the Arab-Byzantine Wars, and it continued to be used as a defence and hiding place throughout different historical periods.
Explore the City
Today, Derinkuyu Underground City opens its doors to the public, revealing a glimpse of the past. Visitors can navigate through narrow labyrinthine tunnels, exploring numerous rooms that were once kitchens, stables, churches, and schools. This subterranean city is a remarkable site of historical and architectural value that offers an unparalleled view into ancient life.