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Carved into the Rocks of Cappadocia, Kaymaklı Impresses with Eight Underground Levels, Ancient Tunnels, and an Ingenious Defense System That Sheltered Entire Generations in Times of War and Religious Persecution
Located in the Nevşehir province, in the heart of Cappadocia, the underground city of Kaymaklı is one of the largest and most famous in the world. Carved into the rocky underground, it represents a remarkable example of human adaptation to the environment and resilience over the centuries.
A Refuge That Originated in the 7th Century B.C.
The origin of Kaymaklı dates back to the 7th century B.C., when its first tunnels began to be excavated.
Later, the city was expanded by Christians seeking refuge from religious persecution, especially during the Arab-Byzantine Wars.
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These peoples found in the soft rock of Cappadocia the ideal hiding place, safe and discreet, capable of sheltering entire families.
The underground city extends across eight different levels, although only four are currently open to visitors.
Even so, the complexity of the structure is impressive. There are long corridors, staircases, ventilation ducts, and a surprising internal organization that reveals the advanced level of planning of its builders.
A Complete World Beneath the Earth
What stands out most in Kaymaklı is the way the place was designed to support an entire community.
There were residences, stables, communal kitchens, and even a church and a cemetery. This complete structure demonstrates that its inhabitants lived relatively comfortably, even far from the surface.
Another curious aspect is the significant number of storage rooms and warehouses scattered throughout the complex.
According to archaeologists, this feature indicates that Kaymaklı had a solid and self-sufficient economy, which was essential for withstanding long periods of seclusion.
Moreover, the defense system was efficient, with narrow passages and large stone doors capable of blocking the entry of invaders.
World Heritage and Tourist Attraction
Open to the public since 1964, Kaymaklı is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Although only a part of the city is open for visitation, the state of preservation is impressive.
The tunnels are well-lit and ventilated, making the visit accessible even for those who are apprehensive about enclosed spaces.
Today, the underground city is one of the most sought-after destinations in Cappadocia. Visits typically last between two and three hours, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid tourist groups.
How to Get to Kaymaklı
The journey there is simple. The city is about a 90-minute drive from Kayseri and can also be reached by public transport.
Those departing from Nevşehir can take a dolmuş — shared taxi — heading to Derinkuyu Koop or Kaymaklı. Departures occur every half hour, from 7:30 AM to 7:10 PM, allowing visitors to explore this fascinating underground city at a leisurely pace.
With information from Historyhit.
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