Beneath the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia in Turkey lies an extraordinary marvel, one that defies conventional notions of architecture and urban planning. Enter Derinkuyu, an ancient subterranean city spanning centuries in a basement. But, how did this city come about?
How Did The Underground City Come About?
The Derinkuyu underground city is a 2500-year-old ancient multi-level underground city in Turkey, extending to a depth of approximately 60m. It is large enough to have sheltered as many as 20,000 people together with their livestock and food stores [more: https://t.co/B2rSHulmWt] pic.twitter.com/CVk1wpqM1K
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The tale goes of a Turkish man, who stumbled upon this ancient underground city. The incident occurred in 1963 when someone in Turkey’s Nevşehir Province decided to use a sledgehammer against a wall in their cellar. The information he discovered at that time was astounding. He discovered that it was not simply a single tunnel but rather a network of interconnecting passages that led one to the other. They unintentionally came across the entrance to the huge underground metropolis known as Derinkuyu.
According to sources, the underground warren, which was later discovered to be 18 stories deep and capable of hosting up to 20,000 people, had been abandoned for generations. Schools, churches, and even stables were located nearby. Derinkuyu’s origins are shrouded in mystery, yet its existence offers a remarkable glimpse into the lives of those who built and inhabited it.
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Inside Derinkuyu
Derinkuyu is an ancient multi-level underground city in Turkey, extending to a depth of 280 feet. The city could accommodate up to 20,000 people and had amenities found such as wine and oil presses, stables, cellars, storage rooms, refectories, and chapels. #AncientSiteSunday pic.twitter.com/FpNA3fj08l
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Derinkuyu’s underground city is a sprawling complex that extends several stories beneath the surface. Its architects employed remarkable engineering techniques to create a self-sustained habitat. The city consists of numerous chambers, interconnected passageways, ventilation shafts, wells, kitchens, churches, stables, and even wineries.
The design of the city showcases an incredible understanding of ventilation. The underground city was carefully planned to accommodate the various needs of its inhabitants. The presence of communal spaces such as churches highlights the importance of religious practices to the community. These churches have intricately carved frescoes and cross-shaped layouts. They provide insights into the spiritual life of the people who dwell there.
Today, Derinkuyu stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the depths of history. So, when are you planning a visit to the city?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons