Underground Cities of Cappadocia: A Hidden World Beneath Turkey's Heartland
Beneath the dramatic landscapes of Cappadocia, where volcanic rock formations rise like otherworldly spires and hot-air balloons drift lazily across pink-hued skies, lies one of the most astonishing secrets of ancient human ingenuity: the underground cities. These subterranean labyrinths, carved deep into the soft tufa rock of central Turkey, are among the most extraordinary architectural and archaeological feats in the world.
Far from simple hideouts or temporary shelters, the underground cities of Cappadocia were vast, complex habitats capable of housing thousands of people. They contained chapels, kitchens, wineries, schools, ventilation shafts, and secure doors—all meticulously crafted by hand over centuries.
The most famous of these underground marvels are Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, but the region is home to over 200 known underground settlements, many of which remain only partially excavated. These underground cities were more than just structures; they were sanctuaries, fortresses, and reflections of a civilisation determined to survive against the odds.
A Subterranean Legacy Etched in Stone
The history of Cappadocia’s underground cities is woven from legend, religion, war, and resilience. The earliest tunnels are believed to have been dug by the Phrygians around the 8th century BCE, taking advantage of the malleable volcanic rock unique to the region. Over time, these primitive shelters evolved into elaborate underground metropolises, especially during the early Christian period, when waves of Roman persecution forced Christian communities to flee into the hidden depths of the earth.
It was during the Byzantine era, from the 5th to the 10th centuries CE, that many of the underground cities reached their peak in terms of scale and sophistication. As Arab invasions swept across Anatolia, the inhabitants of Cappadocia retreated into their subterranean homes, often living underground for months at a time. These cities were designed with survival in mind. Hidden entrances were camouflaged from view, and massive circular stone doors could be rolled across passageways to block invaders. Air shafts and wells were ingeniously constructed to provide ventilation and water, even during extended sieges.
Derinkuyu, the deepest of the known underground cities, descends over 60 metres below the surface and may have once housed up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and food stores. The city contains a missionary school, a church, stables, and even a room believed to have been used as a mental asylum. In Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı alike, every room, tunnel, and stairway reveals an astonishing level of foresight and engineering, shaped by both fear and faith.
A Refuge from Persecution
Religion played a central role in the development and use of Cappadocia’s underground cities. Early Christians, fleeing persecution by Roman authorities, sought refuge in the region’s valleys and caverns. The underground cities allowed them to practise their faith in secret, safe from the eyes of soldiers and hostile forces. Inside these cities, they established small chapels adorned with primitive crosses and religious symbols, suggesting that spiritual life remained central even in times of hiding.
Over time, Cappadocia became a major centre of Christian monastic life. Surface churches were built into cliffs and valleys, many of which still stand today, their frescoes faded but powerful. The harmony between the above-ground religious structures and the subterranean cities below created a unique sacred landscape—a network of worship, shelter, and community entirely shaped by necessity.
Beyond the Christian period, the underground cities continued to serve defensive purposes. During the Seljuk and later Ottoman periods, local populations again turned to these underground havens in times of threat. Though their original purpose had shifted, their utility remained undiminished.
The Architecture of Secrecy and Survival
Walking through one of Cappadocia’s underground cities is a journey through time and ingenuity. The corridors are narrow and sloping, designed to slow down invaders and allow defenders to fight them in small numbers. Rooms are carved out in tiers, with living spaces, storage areas, and communal kitchens on different levels. Ingenious ventilation shafts, some plunging more than 50 metres, ensured that air could circulate even in the deepest chambers.
Equally remarkable is the sophisticated understanding of security and community planning. Large round stone doors, often weighing several hundred kilograms, could be rolled into place to seal off sections of the city. These doors had small peepholes to allow defenders to observe potential threats while remaining protected. Food storage rooms were strategically placed near cooler levels underground, while wine presses and oil-making rooms served both practical and religious purposes.
Passages between rooms were deliberately small, forcing any attacker to crawl or crouch, making it easier to defend. Every element of the design reveals a culture that placed enormous value on safety, faith, and endurance.
The Rediscovery of a Forgotten World
Despite their ancient origins, many of Cappadocia’s underground cities remained forgotten or unknown to the modern world until the 20th century. Derinkuyu, for instance, was rediscovered in 1963 when a local resident, renovating his home, broke through a wall and stumbled upon the labyrinth beneath. Since then, explorers and archaeologists have been working to uncover and map these underground settlements, though many remain only partially excavated due to the complexity and delicacy of the work.
In recent years, satellite imaging and ground-penetrating radar have revealed that many more underground networks may lie hidden beneath Cappadocia’s plains and hills. These discoveries continue to fuel interest and speculation about the full extent of this subterranean civilisation.
Some even speculate that the cities may have been inspired or influenced by lost civilisations or ancient extraterrestrial knowledge—though such theories remain speculative, they add to the air of mystery that surrounds these enigmatic dwellings.
A Timeless Fascination for Modern Visitors
Today, the underground cities of Cappadocia are open to visitors from around the world, offering a unique glimpse into a hidden chapter of human history. Unlike many ancient ruins, which lie exposed to the elements, the underground cities have been remarkably well preserved thanks to their protected environment beneath the surface.
Tourists can walk through carefully lit corridors, descend stone staircases, and peer into chambers that once bustled with life. In places like Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, multilingual guides bring the cities to life, explaining their construction, purpose, and the daily life of their inhabitants. The experience is humbling and unforgettable, a powerful reminder of how far people will go to protect their lives, families, and beliefs.
Visiting Cappadocia offers more than just a history lesson—it is a journey into the heart of human creativity and resilience. Alongside the underground cities, the region boasts a stunning array of natural and historical wonders, from the ”fairy chimney” rock formations and the Göreme Open Air Museum to the richly decorated cave churches and the surreal beauty of the Ihlara Valley.
How to Visit the Underground Cities of Cappadocia
Travelling to the underground cities of Cappadocia is an adventure in itself. The region is located in central Anatolia, and the nearest major airport is in Nevşehir or Kayseri, both offering frequent domestic flights from Istanbul and Ankara. From there, local buses or car rentals provide easy access to the main towns such as Göreme, Ürgüp, and Avanos.
Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, the two best-known underground cities open to visitors, are both located within a short drive from Göreme. Entrance fees are modest, and guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the scale and significance of these sites. The underground cities are well-lit, but those with claustrophobia or mobility issues should be aware that tunnels can be narrow and steep.
The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Many travellers combine a visit to the underground cities with a hot-air balloon ride over the Göreme Valley or a stay in one of Cappadocia’s famous cave hotels, which offer modern luxury within ancient stone chambers.
A journey to the underground cities of Cappadocia is not just a tour—it is an immersion into a hidden world that continues to capture the imagination of all who enter.