Underground Cities

Mystery of Underground Cities: Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı

Published: June 27, 2025 | Reading Time: 7 minutes

These cities, built layer by layer under the surface like an inverted skyscraper, are engineering marvels that amaze those who see them. Hidden beneath the rolling hills of Cappadocia lie some of humanity's most remarkable architectural achievements – vast underground cities that once sheltered thousands of people.

Imagine descending into the earth and discovering an entire civilization carved from solid rock. These aren't simple caves or tunnels, but sophisticated urban complexes with living quarters, churches, storage rooms, stables, and even schools. The underground cities of Cappadocia represent one of the most extraordinary examples of human ingenuity and survival instinct.

The History Behind the Underground Cities

The story of these underground cities spans millennia:

These cities weren't built overnight. They evolved over centuries, with each generation adding new rooms, levels, and sophisticated systems. What started as simple storage spaces eventually became complex urban environments capable of housing entire communities for months at a time.

Derinkuyu: The Deepest Underground City

Derinkuyu is the largest and deepest underground city in Cappadocia, extending 85 meters (280 feet) below ground level.

Key features of Derinkuyu include:

• Ventilation System: 52 ventilation shafts, some reaching 55 meters deep
• Water Wells: Multiple water sources and storage tanks
• Security Features: Rolling stone doors weighing up to 500kg
• Communication System: Tunnels connecting different sections
• Livestock Areas: Stables for animals on the first level
• Religious Spaces: Chapels and churches carved into the rock

Kaymaklı: The Widest Underground City

While not as deep as Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı is the widest underground city and features the most sophisticated layout.

Kaymaklı's unique features:

• Level Organization: Each level had specific functions
• Family Quarters: Private living spaces for families
• Communal Areas: Shared kitchens and meeting spaces
• Storage Systems: Sophisticated food storage areas
• Workshops: Areas for crafts and tool making

Engineering Marvels

The engineering achievements of these underground cities are remarkable:

Ventilation Systems

The most impressive feature is the ventilation system. Fresh air was circulated throughout the entire complex using a network of shafts and chambers. The system was so efficient that even the deepest levels had fresh air circulation.

Water Management

Underground cities had sophisticated water systems including wells, cisterns, and drainage. Water was carefully managed and distributed throughout the complex, with separate systems for drinking water and waste removal.

Security Features

Massive rolling stone doors could be moved from inside to seal off sections. These doors were designed to be impossible to move from the outside, providing perfect security for the inhabitants.

Communication Networks

Complex tunnel systems connected different areas and even different cities. Messages and people could move secretly throughout the underground network.

Daily Life Underground

Life in these underground cities was surprisingly organized and comfortable:

• Living Quarters: Families had private rooms with sleeping areas
• Communal Kitchens: Shared cooking spaces with ventilation
• Storage Areas: Large rooms for food, wine, and supplies
• Workshops: Spaces for crafts, tool making, and repairs
• Schools: Educational areas for children
• Churches: Religious spaces for worship and community gatherings
• Cemeteries: Burial areas within the complex

Why Were They Built?

Several factors led to the creation of these underground cities:

• Protection: Defense against Arab raids and invasions
• Religious Freedom: Safe spaces for Christian communities
• Climate: Stable underground temperatures year-round
• Resources: Storage for food and water during sieges
• Strategic Location: Control of important trade routes

Visiting the Underground Cities

Both Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı are open to visitors, but there are important things to know:

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visiting an underground city is a unique experience:

• Narrow Passages: Some tunnels require bending or crawling
• Low Ceilings: Average height is 1.5-2 meters
• Cool Temperature: Bring a light jacket even in summer
• Artificial Lighting: Well-lit paths but can be dim
• Guided Tours: Highly recommended for historical context

Important Visitor Tips

• Comfortable Shoes: Non-slip soles essential
• Light Clothing: Easy to move in narrow spaces
• Small Backpack: Large bags can be cumbersome
• Flashlight: Backup lighting recommended
• Water: Stay hydrated during the tour
• Camera: Photography allowed in most areas

Other Underground Cities to Explore

Beyond Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, other notable underground cities include:

• Özkonak: 10 levels, unique ventilation system
• Mazi: Well-preserved with original features
• Tatlarin: Smaller but beautifully carved
• Gaziemir: Recently opened to public

Conservation Efforts

These ancient sites require careful preservation:

• UNESCO World Heritage protection
• Controlled visitor numbers to prevent damage
• Ongoing archaeological research
• Climate monitoring and maintenance
• Structural reinforcement where needed

Planning Your Underground City Tour

To make the most of your visit:

• Visit both Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı for comparison
• Allow a full day for both cities
• Book guided tours for expert insights
• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Combine with other Cappadocia attractions
• Check for any temporary closures before visiting

Conclusion

The underground cities of Cappadocia represent one of humanity's most remarkable achievements in engineering and urban planning. These subterranean marvels demonstrate the incredible ingenuity of our ancestors and their ability to create sophisticated living spaces in the most challenging conditions.

Walking through these ancient corridors, you can't help but marvel at the vision and determination of the people who carved entire cities from solid rock. These underground cities are not just historical sites – they're testimonies to human resilience, creativity, and the eternal quest for safety and community.

A visit to Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı will give you a profound appreciation for ancient engineering and a unique perspective on how our ancestors lived, worked, and survived in extraordinary circumstances.