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At 18 stories tall, 85 meters deep and with a history dating back to the XNUMXth century BC, the world's largest underground city, Derinkuyu, was home to thousands of people and animals in an impressive complex in Cappadocia.
Imagine walking through an entire metropolis… but instead of skyscrapers, there are layers of tunnels carved into the rock. This is Derinkuyu, the largest underground city in the world, hidden deep beneath the Cappadocia region of Turkey. At 18 stories tall and with enough space to house 20 people, it is a true showcase of human ingenuity.
A hidden city in the heart of the Earth
The discovery of Derinkuyu was almost like a fairy tale. In 1963, a local resident knocked down a wall in his house and found a tunnel that seemed to have no end. Little did he know that he was uncovering one of the best kept secrets in history.
But who were the first inhabitants of this underground city? Some historians believe that the Phrygians, an ancient Indo-European people, first began to dig around the 8th century BC, and since then it has been used by different civilizations, such as the Byzantine Christians and the Cappadocian Greeks, each group adding new layers to the city.
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Impressive structure and design
Derinkuyu is not just a collection of tunnels. It is a true feat of engineering. Each floor was strategically constructed to house residences, worship areas, dining halls and even classrooms. A sophisticated ventilation system ensured fresh air at all levels, allowing residents to remain safe for months at a time.
The tunnels were also fortified for protection. Giant stone doors could be closed to block intruders. More than a refuge, Derinkuyu was a stronghold.
Life in the world's largest underground city
Living underground was a necessary adaptation for thousands of people seeking safety. Daily life included kitchens, food storage, and even livestock enclosures, carefully positioned close to the surface to minimize odors and keep the air fresh.
Can you imagine what it was like for children to play in these narrow corridors? For adults, life will probably be divided between work, worship and hope when the time comes to emerge.
From history to world heritage
In the early 1963th century, the city was abandoned after the Greeks of Cappadocia fled during the Greco-Turkish war. For decades, Derinkuyu lay hidden until it was rediscovered in XNUMX.
In 1985, UNESCO named the city a World Heritage Site, highlighting its importance historical and cultural. Derinkuyu is a tangible reminder of human resilience and adaptability.
Exploring the underground secrets today
Today, Derinkuyu attracts brave tourists who have walked through its narrow tunnels and marveled at how 50% of the city has been excavated. The experience is unique, but it requires a lot of stamina: the walk is in single file, and at times, you have to bend down to get through the tunnels.
For those visiting the region, other destinations will complement the adventure, such as the Red Valley and the Zelve Open Air Museum. But Derinkuyu remains the underground jewel of Cappadocia, a place where the past literally lies beneath our feet.
The world’s largest underground city, Derinkuyu, is more than just a historical landmark. It is a testament to human creativity in the face of unimaginable challenges. As we explore its tunnels and imagine a life that once flourished there, we are reminded that even in the most adverse conditions, people always thrive. find ways to survive and thrive. If you're looking for an adventure that combines history, mystery and ingenuity, Derinkuyu is the right destination.
