Derinkuyu Underground City is an ancient multi-level underground settlement in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It is one of the several underground cities in the area, but Derinkuyu is the deepest, with archaeological evidence suggesting that it could accommodate thousands of people. It includes various rooms, tunnels, chapels, and amenities that supported life below the surface.
The exact date of the construction of Derinkuyu is not known, but it is thought to have been built around the 8th to 7th centuries BCE. It was expanded over the centuries and was used as a refuge by early Christians and others to escape persecution or invasions.
Derinkuyu Underground City extends to a depth of approximately 60 meters (about 200 feet). It has at least eight levels that have been discovered, with some sources suggesting more levels yet to be uncovered.
Visitors to Derinkuyu can explore several levels of the underground city including living quarters, communal rooms, stables, churches, wine cellars, storage rooms, and ventilation shafts. Informative signs and guided tours are available to enhance the experience and provide historical context.
Tourists can visit Derinkuyu as part of a guided tour or independently. It is located about 30km south of Göreme, which is a popular tourist center in Cappadocia. Buses and private transportation are available from major towns and cities to the site.
Yes, it is safe for tourists to explore the open sections of Derinkuyu Underground City. The pathways and chambers that are accessible to the public have been secured. However, visitors should be aware of low ceilings, narrow passages, and uneven floors. Anyone with claustrophobia or mobility issues may want to consider these factors.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and a small souvenir shop are available at the entrance. However, within the underground city itself, there are no facilities, so visitors should be prepared before entering.
Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip due to the uneven and sometimes slippery pathways. It is also advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater as temperatures underground can be cooler than on the surface, regardless of the season.
The opening hours and ticket prices for Derinkuyu Underground City can vary depending on the time of year and current policies. Typically, it is open daily with extended hours during the tourist season. As prices may change, it's best to check the latest information online or through a visitor's center in Cappadocia.
Yes, it is possible to visit both Derinkuyu and the nearby Kaymakli Underground City in one day, as they are about 9 kilometers apart. Many guided tours offer combined trips to these two sites, allowing visitors to experience different features of each underground city.
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