Located in the heart of Cappadocia, Derinkuyu Underground City is one of the most impressive and largest underground settlements in Turkey. This unique structure, built thousands of years ago for defence and shelter, offers a historical journey to its visitors. All the curious details about Derinkuyu Underground City, transport information and other tourist spots to be seen around it are waiting for you in this guide.
Derinkuyu Underground City Guide: History, Tips, and What to See
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History and Origin of Derinkuyu Underground City
Derinkuyu Underground City is located within the borders of the Derinkuyu district of Nevşehir and takes its name from here. The deepest point of the city goes down to about 85 metres and has the capacity to accommodate an estimated population of up to 20,000 people.
The reason why underground cities are densely located in the Cappadocia region is that people can easily carve thanks to the soft structure of the hard volcanic tuff rocks in the region. However, the most important reason why these structures were built is the attacks and wars in the region throughout history. The construction of the first underground cities started during the Hittite period, but reached its present scope and size during the Byzantine period. Especially in the 7th and 8th centuries, it was used as a shelter against Arab raids.
The underground city contains many areas necessary for life such as air ducts, water wells, kitchens, school rooms, churches and stables. Each floor has giant stone doors that can be closed for defence purposes. Thus, the entrance and exit of foreigners could be kept under control.
Structural and Cultural Characteristics of Derinkuyu Underground City
Derinkuyu is the largest and deepest of the other underground cities in Cappadocia. Although it is estimated that there are 8 floors in total, there may still be unexplored and closed off to visitors.
The entrances to the city are generally narrow and hidden. The paths that visitors descend are connected by steep stairs and interconnected by labyrinthine corridors. As the depth increases layer by layer, the spaces expand, revealing churches, cellars, kitchens and living rooms.
One of the most striking areas is a large ventilation shaft in the centre of the city.
These chimneys not only take in air, but also provide access to water wells.
The rock churches in the underground city are decorated with frescoes and bear traces of the early Christian period. This shows that Derinkuyu is also of religious importance.
From a cultural point of view, Derinkuyu bears traces of the different civilisations that lived in the region - Hittites, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines. According to legends, these cities were a safe haven not only in times of war but also for Christians fleeing religious persecution.
Derinkuyu Underground City Legends and Mythological Importance
There are many legends and mythological narratives about Derinkuyu Underground City. The most well-known of these is that the city was built by an underground civilisation and that ‘mysterious forces’ live here. However, scientific research shows that the city was built by human hands and developed over long periods of time.
Another legend is that these underground cities are connected to a huge cave system known as ‘Kayserili Black Hole’. These rumours have increased the interest in underground cities and led to the emergence of mysterious stories.
Mythologically, the beliefs of the people living in the Cappadocia region about the underground world are seen as one of the main reasons for the construction of such cities. It is rumoured that especially Christians used these cities to escape persecution and held sacred rituals here.
Transportation and Visit Information to Derinkuyu Underground City
Derinkuyu Underground City is located in the heart of the Cappadocia region, about 30 km from Nevşehir city centre. It is easily accessible by buses and tour vehicles departing from Nevşehir. You can also easily visit it by renting a car from Kayseri and Nevşehir Airports.
Although visiting hours vary throughout the year, it is usually open from 08:00 in the morning until 19:00 in the evening. The entrance fee is reasonable and guided tours are recommended both to learn the details of the underground city and to better understand its history.
During the visit, it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for confined spaces, as the underground cities are narrow and damp. In addition, lighting is limited in the city, so it will be useful to consider the light settings when taking photos.
Derinkuyu Underground City and Other Places to Visit
After visiting Derinkuyu Underground City, if you have time to see the other unique natural and historical beauties that Cappadocia has to offer, there are places around it that you should definitely visit.
Firstly, Göreme National Park offers a mesmerising experience with its fairy chimneys, rock-carved churches and unique landscapes, all of which are on Cappadocia's UNESCO World Heritage list.
Kaymaklı Underground City, also located nearby, can be visited as an alternative to Derinkuyu. Kaymaklı is a little larger and has different architectural features and provides the opportunity to make comparisons with Derinkuyu.
Uchisar Castle, as the highest point of the region, offers a bird's eye view of Cappadocia, while valleys such as Paşabağı and Zelve Valley are ideal routes for nature walks and photography enthusiasts.
In addition, visitors to the region can participate in Cappadocia's world-famous hot air balloon tours and watch the sunrise views from a height of approximately 1000 metres above the ground.
