Derinkuyu, an ancient underground city

Derinkuyu is an ancient underground city located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It is one of the largest and most impressive underground cities in the world, with a network of tunnels and chambers that extends more than 85 meters deep into the earth.


The city was built by the Phrygians, an ancient civilization that inhabited the region around 800 BC. It was later expanded and used by the early Christians as a hiding place during times of persecution. Derinkuyu was designed to accommodate thousands of people, with its tunnels and chambers providing shelter, storage, and protection from invaders.


The city was built with a complex system of ventilation shafts and wells that provided fresh air and water to its inhabitants. The city is divided into several levels, each with its own unique features and functions. The upper levels were used for living quarters, while the lower levels were used for storage, livestock, and religious purposes.

One of the most impressive features of Derinkuyu is its underground church, which is located on the lowest level of the city. The church is carved out of the rock and features a large central nave, several smaller chapels, and a baptismal font. Derinkuyu was rediscovered in the 1960s and has since become a popular tourist attraction.


Visitors can explore the city's tunnels and chambers, see its ancient artifacts and architecture, and learn about its fascinating history. Despite its age and complexity, Derinkuyu remains remarkably well-preserved. Its tunnels and chambers are still intact, and many of its original features, such as its ventilation shafts and wells, are still in use today.

Overall, Derinkuyu is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient civilizations that inhabited the Cappadocia region. Its impressive architecture and engineering, combined with its rich history and cultural significance, make it one of the most fascinating and unique destinations in the world.