5Derinkuyu Underground City, Turkey
Located in the heart of Cappadocia in central Turkey, Derinkuyu is one of the most famous and largest underground cities ever discovered. It is believed to date back to the 8th century BCE, with some estimates suggesting it may have been constructed even earlier. Carved into soft volcanic rock, Derinkuyu extends 60 meters (200 feet) deep into the earth and contains 18 levels, although only eight are open to visitors today.
This fascinating underground city was primarily constructed as a refuge during times of invasion and war. It could house up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock, supplies, and even religious spaces like chapels. The city’s design is incredibly sophisticated, with an elaborate system of ventilation shafts, wells, storage areas, stables, and kitchens. One of its most remarkable features is the large rolling stone doors, which could be sealed to block entry into the city’s levels. Derinkuyu also connected to other underground cities in the region through tunnels, creating a vast network of subterranean shelters across Cappadocia. Today, Derinkuyu remains an essential tourist destination, providing a window into ancient survival strategies and architectural genius.
