Derinkuyu Underground City
Central Anatolia Region
Derinkuyu Underground City is an extraordinary subterranean complex located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, extending to a depth of approximately 85 meters. It is the largest excavated underground city in Turkey, capable of sheltering up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and provisions. The city features numerous floors connected by tunnels, with amenities including stables, cellars, dining halls, chapels, and unique spaces such as a religious school with a vaulted ceiling. A remarkable 55-meter ventilation shaft provided fresh air and access to water, essential for inhabitants during times of siege or hiding. The city could be sealed from the inside with massive rolling stone doors, and each floor could be independently closed. Derinkuyu was historically used by various civilizations, including the Phrygians, Romans, Byzantines, and local Christian communities who sought refuge from invasions and persecutions. Rediscovered in the 20th century, it is now a popular tourist site showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of ancient peoples in creating secure, livable underground environments.
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Tip: The best time to visit Derinkuyu Underground City is in the morning shortly after opening to avoid crowds. Tickets can be purchased onsite, and Museum Cards are accepted for Turkish citizens, offering convenient access. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain involves stairs and tunnels. Guided tours enhance understanding of the complex's history and architecture. The site is open daily from 8:00 to 17:00, with the ticket office closing at 16:15. Due to limited accessible areas, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended during peak seasons to enrich the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Derinkuyu could accommodate up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and food stores.
- •The underground city features a 55-meter deep ventilation shaft that also served as a water well.
- •Large rolling stone doors could close off the city from the inside for protection.
- •The complex includes a religious school with a barrel-vaulted ceiling on the second floor.
- •Derinkuyu is connected via tunnels to the nearby Kaymakli underground city, spanning 8–9 km.
- •The city was used as a refuge during Mongol invasions in the 14th century and later by Christians escaping persecution in Ottoman times.
- •Only about 10% of the city is currently open to visitors.
History
The origins of Derinkuyu Underground City trace back to the 8th–7th centuries BC, possibly built by the Phrygians carving into the soft volcanic tuff of Cappadocia.
During Roman times, the city expanded with Greek influences, including chapels and inscriptions.
It reached full development in the Byzantine era, serving as a refuge against invasions, notably from Mongols in the 14th century.
The city remained in use through Ottoman times, providing shelter for native Christian populations during persecutions.
After the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923, the tunnels were abandoned until rediscovered in 1963.
Opened to the public in 1969, Derinkuyu has since been a vital cultural and historical site.
Place Guide
Entrance and Stables
The entrance floor, mostly used as stables, was designed for ease of access for animals and initial defense. It marks the beginning of the extensive underground tunnels.
Religious School RoomByzantine period
A spacious room with a barrel-vaulted ceiling on the second floor, believed to have been used as a religious school, with adjacent study rooms.
Ventilation Shaft and Well
A 55-meter deep shaft providing ventilation and water supply, crucial for sustaining inhabitants during long periods underground.
Chapel and Church on Lowest LevelByzantine period
Located on the fifth and lowest level, the chapel and church served the spiritual needs of the underground community, accessible via staircases from upper floors.
Contact
Phone: (0384) 381 31 94
