Derinkuyu Underground city

Summary

Derinkuyu is an ancient multi-level underground city located in the Derinkuyu district in Nevşehir Province, Turkey. This extraordinary city extends to a depth of approximately 85 meters and is large enough to have sheltered as many as 20,000 people together with their livestock and food stores. It is the largest excavated underground city in Turkey and is part of a network of similar complexes found across Cappadocia.

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Historical Background of Derinkuyu

The history of Derinkuyu is shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed to have been built during the Byzantine era for protection against invading forces. Initially, it was probably used as a temporary refuge before evolving into a fully-fledged city. The first mention of Derinkuyu was in the 10th century, in the Byzantine period.

Interestingly, the city was not discovered until 1963 when a local found a mysterious room behind a wall in his home. Further excavation revealed the extensive network of tunnels and rooms that make up Derinkuyu. Despite extensive research, only about half of the underground city is accessible today.

Derinkuyu was connected to other underground cities through miles of tunnels, allowing residents to escape to a neighbouring city if one was invaded. These tunnels were narrow and could be closed off using large stone doors, making it difficult for invaders to penetrate the city.

The city included all the necessary amenities for life underground, including stables, cellars, storage rooms, refectories, and chapels. There were also ventilation shafts and wells to ensure a constant supply of fresh air and water.

Derinkuyu was finally abandoned for good in the 1920s and was forgotten until its rediscovery in the 1960s. Today, it serves as a fascinating historical site, attracting tourists from around the world.

Architectural Highlights/About the Artifact

The architecture of Derinkuyu is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its ancient inhabitants. The city was carved out of the soft volcanic rock, known as tuff, that is prevalent in the Cappadocia region. This material was easy to work with, allowing for the creation of the extensive network of rooms and tunnels.

The city was organized around vertical shafts that provided ventilation and access to the different levels. These shafts were also used as wells, ensuring a constant supply of fresh water. The largest of these shafts is about 55 meters deep.

One of the most remarkable features of the underground city of Derinkuyu is the large stone doors that could be rolled across the tunnels to seal off the city. These doors were up to 1 meter high and had a small hole in the middle that could be used for defense.

Another notable feature is the extensive network of tunnels connecting Derinkuyu to other underground cities. These tunnels were narrow and could be easily defended, providing a safe escape route in case of an invasion.

Despite the harsh conditions, the inhabitants of Derinkuyu managed to create a comfortable living environment. The city included stables for livestock, cellars for storing food and wine, and even chapels for religious ceremonies.

Theories and Interpretations

There are many theories about the origins and purpose of the underground city at Derinkuyu. Some believe it was built by the Phrygians, an ancient Indo-European people, while others attribute it to the Persians or early Christians. However, the most widely accepted theory is that it was built during the Byzantine era as a refuge against invasions.

Another theory suggests that Derinkuyu was used as a hiding place for early Christians during the Roman persecution. The presence of chapels and the connection to other Christian sites in the region support this theory.

Some researchers have proposed that Derinkuyu was part of a larger network of underground cities used for military purposes. The narrow tunnels and large stone doors would have made it difficult for invaders to penetrate the city, providing a safe refuge for the inhabitants.

Despite the many theories, the true purpose and origins of Derinkuyu remain a mystery. Further research and excavation are needed to uncover the secrets of this fascinating underground city.

Regardless of its original purpose, Derinkuyu stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. It’s a reminder of our ability to adapt and thrive in even the most challenging environments.

Good to know/Additional Information

Visiting Derinkuyu is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the past. However, it’s important to note that the city is not fully accessible due to safety concerns. Only about 10% of the city is open to the public, but this still includes many interesting features such as the large stone doors and the ventilation shafts.

The city is located about 30 km south of Nevşehir and can be reached by car or bus. There are also guided tours available that include transportation and a guide to explain the history and features of the city.

Derinkuyu is open every day from 8 am to 7 pm in the summer and from 8 am to 5 pm in the winter. The entrance fee is 50 Turkish Lira, and it’s recommended to bring a flashlight as some areas can be quite dark.

While in the area, it’s worth visiting the other underground cities in Cappadocia, such as Kaymakli and Özkonak. These cities offer a different perspective on the underground life in ancient times.

Derinkuyu is a fascinating historical site that offers a unique insight into the past. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for an unusual adventure.

Conclusion and Sources

Derinkuyu is a remarkable testament to human resilience and ingenuity. Its intricate architecture and the mystery surrounding its origins continue to fascinate researchers and tourists alike. While we may never fully understand the purpose and history of this underground city, it remains a fascinating window into our past.

For further reading and research, the following sources provide valuable information:

• Wikipedia: Derinkuyu underground city
• BBC: Turkey’s underground city of 20000 people
• Atlas Obscura: Derinkuyu – underground city – strange maps

FAQ on Derinkuyu Underground City

Can you visit Derinkuyu Underground City?

Yes, you can visit Derinkuyu Underground City. It is a popular tourist attraction located in Cappadocia, Turkey. The site is open to the public, and guided tours are available to help visitors understand the history and structure of this ancient underground city. It’s advisable to check the current opening hours and any travel advisories before planning your visit.

How old is Derinkuyu Underground City?

The exact age of Derinkuyu Underground City is difficult to determine, but it is believed to have been built in the 8th–7th centuries BCE. The city was expanded and extensively used by early Christians as a refuge from persecution during the Byzantine era, around the 5th and 10th centuries CE.

Where is Derinkuyu Underground City?

Derinkuyu Underground City is located in the Derinkuyu district in Nevşehir Province, Central Anatolia, Turkey. It is part of the region of Cappadocia, known for its unique geological, historical, and cultural features.

Why was Derinkuyu Underground City built?

Derinkuyu Underground City was initially built for storage and protection from the elements and enemies. Over time, it was expanded to serve as a refuge for the local population during periods of invasion and religious persecution. The city includes living quarters, stables, churches, storage rooms, and communal areas, indicating it was designed to support a significant number of people for extended periods.

Who built Derinkuyu Underground City?

The Phrygians, an Indo-European people, are believed to have initially constructed the underground city in the 8th–7th centuries BCE. It was later expanded by other inhabitants of the region, including early Christians, who used it as a hiding place from Roman and later Byzantine persecution.

Is Derinkuyu Underground City real?

Yes, Derinkuyu Underground City is real. It is one of the largest and most fascinating underground settlements in the world. Archaeologists and historians have extensively studied the site, and it continues to be a subject of research and interest due to its complex structure and the insight it provides into ancient engineering and survival strategies.

Can you go inside Derinkuyu?

Yes, you can go inside Derinkuyu. Derinkuyu is an ancient multi-level underground city in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It is one of the largest and deepest of the many underground cities in the region, believed to have been built as early as the 8th to 7th centuries BCE and expanded over the centuries.

Is Derinkuyu worth a visit?

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