Derinkuyu, Underground city in Derinkuyu, Turkey
Derinkuyu is an underground city extending approximately 85 meters deep through eight connected levels carved into the volcanic rock beneath the Cappadocia plateau. The settlement contains distinct areas for wine production, food storage, livestock keeping, and water sources.
The Phrygians first carved this settlement into the rock during the 8th century BCE. Later, Byzantine inhabitants expanded the network to provide shelter during periods of Arab raids and conflicts.
This underground settlement served as a refuge where inhabitants practiced their faith in carved chapels and chambers deep below ground. Religious life was woven into daily routines, with worship spaces positioned throughout the different levels.
The underground passages are accessible through several entrances, though some corridors are narrow and low-ceilinged. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to navigate the multiple levels at a leisurely pace.
A sophisticated ventilation shaft plunging 55 meters deep supplies fresh air to the entire underground settlement. This engineering solution reveals how carefully the space was planned and allowed residents to remain underground for extended periods.
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